Just two years in (I know, I'm still an infant), I've been gifted with the ability to sniff out other educators in public. Usual indicators include, but are not limited to:

• Pretty/neat handwriting
• Solid voice-projection skills
• Clear communication/leadership skills
• Calling small children "friends"
• "Was that a safe/responsible choice?"

Then the proceding exchange includes "You wouldn't happen to be a teacher, would you?" and "Yes! What gave it away?" and then BOOM! Instant friendship, or at the very least, familiarity.

You see, I learned pretty early on in my undergrad that teaching as a profession is incredibly collaborative. Everything we do, say, practice, etc. is shared by hundreds - no - thousands of other teachers. When we see those same practices being used by others, it creates a sense of community. Or, when we see something new being used by a fellow educator, it becomes yet another learning opportunity.

I think that's what I love best about this job - I will always have a friend, and I will never stop learning.

And that's where this blog, this site, and all of our other resources come in. Ashley and I just want to keep making this community even bigger. The more we help each other, the smaller our struggles in this ever-so-often thankless job can seem. Why reinvent the wheel? Why work harder when you can work smarter? Why not lean on someone when the burden becomes too much? You'd be crazy not to.

Thanks for joining the Grading Papers family today, we are so excited to start this journey with you on our team.

Best, Emma