Professional Learning Network for Teachers: Why You Should Start Building Yours Now

Hi Edumagicians,

You might be thinking, “I’ve heard of a PLN before, but I won’t need one until I land my first teaching job.” That’s a common thought among preservice teachers—but it’s not true. A professional learning network for teachers is a powerful tool for educators at every stage, whether you're just starting or have years of experience.

Your PLN can support, encourage, and challenge you to grow into the educator you’re meant to be. In this post, I’m here to bust three common myths about PLNs and show you why building one now is a smart move.

Three Myths About Building a Professional Learning Network for Teachers

Myth 1: “I need a big following to make a difference.”

Nope! It’s not about how many followers you have—it’s about the quality of your content. If you consistently share meaningful ideas, your audience will grow naturally.

Here are a few ideas for quality posts:

• A photo of a bulletin board you created

• A snapshot of a presentation you gave

• A classroom moment (with proper permissions)

• A strategy or tool you learned in class

• A link to a helpful article or resource

• An idea for an upcoming lesson

• A tech tool artifact you created

  
  

And remember, keep hashtags relevant. A picture, GIF, or link adds value and helps your post stand out.

Myth 2: “I don’t have time to post regularly.”

You don’t have to post every hour. Use tools like TweetDeck or Hootsuite to schedule your posts daily, weekly, or monthly. Hootsuite is a lifesaver for me. I use it to post across Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram with just one click. You can even customize content for each platform.

It’s a great way to stay consistent and reach your audience where they are. And yes—it’s free!

Myth 3: “I don’t have anything worth sharing.”

Yes, you do! Administrators are looking for new educators who bring fresh ideas and tech-savvy strategies to the classroom. Tweet what you’re learning in class, share your favorite tools, and use relevant hashtags to connect with others.

Your professional learning network for teachers is about engaging with the education community, not just following instructions from a professor. Take ownership of your learning and share your journey. You never know who you’ll inspire or connect with.

Building a professional learning network for teachers is one of the best things you can do for your growth. It’s not about perfection—it’s about connection. Start today, share what you’re learning, and watch your PLN grow with you.

Connect with Dr. Sam Fecich

Want to keep the conversation going beyond the blog? I’d love to connect with you! Whether you're a future educator, a current teacher, or someone passionate about edtech and innovation in the classroom, there are plenty of ways to stay inspired and supported.

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Remember, EDUmagicians...You have the EduMagic within you. Keep shining, keep growing, and keep making a difference.