Growing networks

Did you think that you would Twitter? How about blog? 85 teachers and administrators, as well as representatives of MEA, MASA, MSBO met today to learn about new ways to grow our respective organization's social networks. At MEA headquarters today, the Michigan School Public Relations Association held a workshop that focused on the power of social networking. Norrie and I spent the morning learning how to blog, twitter, and even how to re-tweet. We were both amazed at how quickly information can be shared with people that have similar interests. How information is used creates power, changes the dynamics at the bargaining table, aids in advocating for members. One doesn't have to look any further than the events in GR this week to see how people try to use information to create power or change the dynamics in bargaining.

What does this mean for our locals? It is a new way for members to connect to other members to exchange best practices, presidents to share insights with other presidents, and locals to build coalitions with other locals. In other words, the ability for us to collaborate and share information through social networking creates powerful groups with common goals. Social networks are just another avenue that we can use to support each other as we improve teaching and learning conditions within our schools.

I encourage you to attend the March Leadership Banquet to learn more how our Coordinating Council will use these social networks to unite and strengthen the local associations in BIMEA.

Until then, how do you think that we could use social networks within the Coordinating Council? Post your thoughts and ideas