Life, in many ways, is about building relationships. In my past experiences working in the oil industry, heading up to a jobsite was more than just clocking in and out—it was an opportunity to get to know people, make friends, and foster connections. This was especially important because, at the end of every project, layoffs were almost guaranteed. Having a network of people I trusted, and who trusted me, became invaluable. I could call up a contact, ask about job openings at their site, and often secure my next opportunity.

In industries like oil and construction, your reputation is everything. Your work ethic, attitude, and reliability are your calling cards, and they can open doors or close them. This same principle applies to teaching, a field where relationships are just as crucial, if not more so.

When the time comes for me to interview for a teaching position, it will be my first formal interview in years. My previous transitions between jobs were often informal—quick calls to a superintendent and a “see you Monday” kind of arrangement. This shift to a more structured hiring process is a reminder of the importance of continually building and maintaining a positive professional network.

Reflecting on This Semester

This semester has flown by, and I genuinely believe we’re all better for the shared experiences and connections we’ve built. I’ve made it a priority to engage actively within our networked learning environment by:

• Commenting on Blogs: I’ve contributed feedback and insights on classmates’ blog posts, continuing conversations and adding value to their reflections.
• Participating in Class Discussions: Whether in-person or online, I’ve aimed to engage thoughtfully in discussions, sharing my perspectives and learning from others.
• Contributing to Discord: I’ve tried to be as helpful as possible, answering questions, sharing resources, and supporting my peers when challenges arose.

What we’re doing here goes beyond individual learning—it’s about creating a community of support and growth. Teaching is inherently a relationship-building profession. Whether it’s collaborating with colleagues, fostering trust with parents, or connecting with students, relationships form the foundation of everything we do.

Moving Forward

In the following video, I’ll walk you through specific examples of how I’ve contributed to this semester’s learning community. From my interactions on Discord to blog comments and shared resources, this journey highlights the ways we’ve collectively built relationships through our learning experiences.

Thank you for being part of this journey—let’s continue to grow, learn, and support one another.