Welcome to HNET -- Hofstra Network of Elementary Teachers

 

What is HNET?  HNET is a newly formed group of Hofstra University pre-service teachers and alumni of Hofstras undergraduate and graduate elementary education programs. 

 

What is the purpose of HNET?  Teaching is, to borrow from the Peace Corps motto, the toughest job you'll ever love.  In addition, teaching is, all too often, a lonely profession where we go into our rooms and shut the door, away from the companionship of and professional sharing with our fellow teachers.  HNET exists to provide a professional community for elementary teachers and teachers-to-be associated with Hofstra.  (Please note:  associated with Hofstra may be defined quite loosely.  If you work with the colleague of a Hofstra alum, have had a Hofstra participant-observer or student-teacher, or supervised a Hofstra student, you may certainly be a part of HNET.)  HNET allows us to support each other professionally, in person and on the web, so that we can learn from each other and grow together as teachers.

 

What kinds of activities will HNET include?  Of course, the members of HNET will ultimately decide what activities will best serve their needs, but the list below contains some ideas for starters:

·    Annual conference with workshops by members  of HNET

·   Discussion get-togethers to talk about teacher issues

·    Resource recommendations on the website

·     Links to suggested materials on the website

·     Chat room on the website

·     Lesson plan ideas shared on the website

·     Teaching techniques shared on the website

·    Special programs to address gaps in content knowledge identified by HNET members

·   Special programs to address gaps in pedagogical knowledge identified by HNET members

·    Newsletter

·    Collaboration on articles by professors/teachers on teaching issues

·    Book discussion group

·    Current events discussion group on the website

·    Social events

·    Job information

·   Your thoughts here

 

How can I get involved in HNET?  Email HNET@Hofstra.edu if you would like to be involved in the planning of activities and the writing of articles.  Check out the website and listen in on and participate in any relevant discussions.  Suggest new topics and books for discussion.  Alert your colleagues to excellent resources.  Volunteer to present at an HNET conference.  As you can see, the possibilities are exciting for all of us.  Here's to a successful launching of the network!

 

We go farther faster when we go together. --

Martin Luther King, Jr.