Block out the memes-of-the-week and celebrity temper tantrums, and you’ll find educators have developed a booming voice on the internet. On their blogs and Twitter feeds, K-12 thought leaders provide an anytime, anywhere personal learning network that covers everything from #leadership to #diversity to #lessonplanning to #edtech. Here’s a sampling of educators to follow:
Steven W. Anderson: This education and technology consultant ranks in the top 5 on the list as far as Twitter followers go. Anderson is a former classroom teacher and director of instructional technology who co-founded #Edchat and now coaches educators on effective use of technology, particularly in differentiating instruction. @web20classroom
Jay Billy: Described in the local media as “uber-popular,” Billy focuses on improving school climate to build enthusiasm among learners, teachers and leaders. He is the principal of Ben Franklin Elementary School in Lawrence Township Public Schools (N.J.), and author of Lead With Culture: What Really Matters in Our Schools. @JayBilly2, principalbilly.blogspot.com/
Dave Burgess: The former teacher and ubiquitous author of Teach Like a Pirate consults with schools and educators on motivating hard-to-reach students. @burgessdave
George Couros: This former principal in Alberta, Canada, probably has the most Twitter followers on the list. As a teaching, learning and leadership consultant, and the author of The Innovator’s Mindset, he encourages educators to let students’ passions guide instruction. @gcouros, georgecouros.ca/blog/
Linda Darling-Hammond: The professor of education emeritus at Stanford University and president of its Learning Policy Institute writes and edits publications that focus on equity through quality teaching and on providing schools with sufficient resources. @LDH_ed
Peter DeWitt: Diversity drives this former K-5 teacher and principal who runs workshops on fostering inclusive school climates and collaborative leadership. @PeterMDeWitt, petermdewitt.com/
Eric Sheninger: This former principal is an international keynote speaker who is now an authority on digital leadership. He is also a senior fellow at the International Center for Leadership in Education. @E_Sheninger, ericsheninger.com/
