Ten blogs that inspire this one

Last weekend, I published my one hundredth blog post. Reaching this milestone made me reflect on my journey as a blogger and got me thinking about teacher bloggers who have influenced and inspired me along the way. These bloggers deserve some recognition and I encourage everyone to visit these sites and follow them. All of these bloggers publish new posts on a regular basis so you’ll constantly be updated with high-quality ideas that will support your teaching. I thank them all sincerely for their efforts.

This is by no means a definitive ‘best blogs’ list. I could list countless other exceptional education blogs that I enjoy reading. This is a more personal list of bloggers who have inspired and supported me over the last hundred posts.

On a slightly separate note, every blogger listed here is also active on Twitter. If you have considered joining, this is a great time because the #12daystwitter challenge starts next week. This is a fantastic opportunity to familiarise yourself with Twitter and start building your professional learning network (PLN).

In no particular order, here is my list of ten blogs that inspire this one:

Teacher Tech by Alice Keeler (@alicekeeler)

I don’t think there’s anyone who makes me question my practice as much as Alice. She makes learning current and relevant for her students and encourages all teachers to do the same. She believes in using technology to build relationships with students. In particular, her knowledge of Google products is unrivalled. Click here to browse books by Alice Keeler.

The Principal of Change by George Couros (@gcouros)

If there’s one blog that all educators should follow, it’s this one. George blogs about innovation in teaching, learning and leadership. I look forward to every new post and every one of them makes me think, question and reflect. George’s book, The Innovator’s Mindset, should be on every teacher’s Christmas list (now available as an audiobook as well).

EdTech 4 Beginners by Neil Jarret (@edtechneil)

By following Neil’s blog, we can stay up to date with trends and innovations within the field of educational technology. His posts can help even the less confident users of technology. Neil has recently started a new series of 2-minute tutorials, aimed at teachers who want to learn but struggle to find the time. On a personal note, I have contacted Neil on a few occasions during my blogging journey and he has always been happy to help.

Making Good Humans by Taryn Bond Clegg (@makingoodhumans)

I absolutely love learning from Taryn. She has been a wonderful source of inspiration regarding all things inquiry and PYP. Taryn is clearly an exceptional teacher and a passionate advocate of authentic student agency. I always appreciate bloggers who are reflective and honest. Taryn is the perfect example of this.

@TeacherToolkit by Ross Morrison McGill (@TeacherToolkit)

One of the first blogs I ever followed! Originally started by Ross Morrison McGill in 2007, this blog has evolved into a limited company and a collaborative platform for many teacher bloggers. The blog discusses a wide range of topics in education including workload demands and government initiatives. Click here to browse Ross’ books.

Education Rickshaw by Zach and Stephanie Groshell (@MrZachG and @SGroshell)

Zach and Stephanie blog about international teaching and 21st century learning. Their international experience and current location of Sudan offer them a unique perspective. I enjoy sharing and learning with both Zach and Stephanie and we have always supported each other’s blogs. Zach wrote about his Sudanese lifestyle in an interesting guest post. Click here to read it.

Mr P’s ICT blog by Lee Parkinson (@ICT_MrP)

Who doesn’t know Mr P? His hilarious videos and teaching anecdotes have elevated him to celebrity status. He has a large following and a strong presence on social media. He believes in the transformational potential of technology and helps others to raise standards through its meaningful integration. As much as I love his entertaining posts, these shouldn’t distract from his serious ones. In particular, he caught my attention with his Safer Internet Day “rant”. In my opinion, he hit the nail on the head with every one of his points. Click here to browse Lee’s series of iPad lessons.

Honors Grad U by Mary Wade (@mary_teaching)

This blog is currently maintained by Mary Wade. Mary is an active user of social media and obviously enjoys reading blogs as much as she enjoys writing. As a mother, Mary writes about both teaching and parenting, and how each of these responsibilities can influence the other. Her post about raising iGen kids encourages teachers and parents to see the opportunities offered by the digital age rather than constantly focusing on the negatives.

Talk tech with me by Katie Siemer (@Katie_M_Ritter)

Katie founded and maintains the Blogging Buddies initiative and this is how I first connected with her. I have been enjoying her blog ever since. Katie has a strong understanding of technology tools and how they can be authentically integrated, especially Google apps. In another initiative to connect people, Katie also facilitates Classroom Bridges. On a daily basis, Katie exemplifies the power of being a connected educator.

Principal French’s Reflections by Mark French (@PrincipalFrench)

I love Mark’s obvious love and enthusiasm for his job as a school principal. On his blog and on Twitter, he simply radiates positivity and happiness! Having said that, he has also shared moments of vulnerability and honesty. Mark is a wonderful example of how school leaders can build and maintain relationships with students and families, and also how school leaders can continue learning with and through their PLN.

Take the time now to click these links and follow these amazing educators. Like I said, there are thousands of other teacher bloggers out there who equally deserve recognition. As I hover over the ‘publish’ button, I have an awful feeling that I have forgotten someone who should be on this list. If it’s you, I am very sorry! I will write another one of these lists in the near future because I am constantly discovering new, inspiring blogs. Which blogs do you love to read? Let me know in the comments section below. I look forward to following them.

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