Imagine a staff lounge full of like-minded Spanish teachers with whom you could 
discuss best practices, talk about lesson ideas, collaborate on projects, and more. Well, that place does exist, you just have to broaden your definition of lounge. So today we show you the Top 6 places to connect with other Spanish teachers. And wouldn’t you know it, the best places to socialize are through social media.
6. Facebook
Join groups such as World Language Education or FL 
Teacher. Once you are a member, you can find the group on the left panel of facebook underneath “Groups”. Write a post, reply with comments, all with a website you likely already use.
5. reddit
Although, a popular website, one typically doesn’t think of education and teachers, but did you know reddit has its own Education, Teachers, and even a Spanish Teachers subreddit? Here’s our profile page. Mainly for discussions, you can vote up or down posts and comments.
4. Teachers.net
This “chatboard” is typically used to post questions with regulars contributing their answers and opinions. Have a doubt? Want to double-check something? Post it here and get feedback from other teachers.
3. Edmodo (Schoology)
Many teachers use this social media tool designed for education with their students. But teachers also have their own group they can post to and share.
You can join the World Language Community with over 240 thousand followers or the specific Spanish Teacher Share group. Or if you use schoology you can check out the Foreign Language group.
2. ACTFL conference
This is the only option that costs money and requires you to wear pants while participating. But it is well worth it…on both accounts. Attend any of of 100s of session led by knowledgeable colleagues. Network and socialize with attendees during breaks and over a meal. And if you can’t make the national event, look for a regional (multiple state) or your own state’s organization’s conference.
And the NUMBER ONE way to connect with foreign language teachers…..
1. Twitter: Langchat
In addition to particpating in #langchat on Thursday (or using the hashtag at any other point), @SECottrell has compiled a list of over 800 Language Teachers that you can add to your twitter network. I am inspired everyday by the the sharing of the countless members of my personal learning network that tweets great ideas, amazing resources, links, and so much more.
Do you agree with this list? Is there another avenue you use to connect with other teachers? Share in the comments below.
