Join host Cate Tolnai for an inspiring conversation with Heidi Baynes, a 27-year education veteran from Riverside County Office of Education, as they explore the power of authentic connections in teaching.
In this episode, discover:
• How early support systems shape entire teaching careers
• The evolution from Twitter chats to modern educator networks
• Why the "bat phone" concept matters (and what it looks like today)
• The importance of creating safe spaces for failure and innovation
• How chaos can become a catalyst for problem-solving skills
• Real strategies for supporting overwhelmed educators
Heidi shares her journey from being a new teacher during the dawn of classroom internet to becoming a statewide leader in computer science and eSports education.
Together, Cate and Heidi reflect on how authentic feedback loops, humor, and genuine resource-sharing create lasting professional communities.
Whether you're a new teacher seeking support, a veteran educator looking to reconnect with your purpose, or an education leader wanting to build stronger teams, this conversation offers valuable insights on creating meaningful connections that sustain careers and transform classrooms.
Key Takeaway:
"It's going to be okay" - Sometimes the most powerful support we can offer is calm confidence and the reminder that we can pivot, retry, and grow together.
Connect with Heidi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-baynes-ed-d-70435b103/
#Education #TeacherSupport #EdTech #ProfessionalLearning #EducatorConnections #ComputerScienceEducation #TeachingCommunity
