Education is deeply rewarding—but at times, it can also feel isolating. Many educators spend their days making hundreds of decisions independently while navigating complex student needs, accountability pressures, and the emotional weight that comes with caring deeply about those they serve. It’s not uncommon for teachers, coaches, and administrators to feel as though they are carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. Over time, this can lead to a sense of loneliness—or the belief that one is facing these challenges alone.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
As humans, we are wired for connection. Education itself is inherently social, and meaningful connections should exist not only among students but also among adults. Professional networks—whether within a building, across a district, or regionally—create space for shared learning, reflection, and encouragement. Conversations with colleagues who understand the context can spark new ideas, validate challenges, improve practice, and serve as a powerful reminder that others are walking similar paths.
Beyond local networks and coaching relationships, educators also have access to a broader system of support through organizations like Central Rivers Area Education Agency (AEA). Central Rivers AEA consultants bring deep expertise across content areas, evidence-based instructional strategies, special education, behavior supports, leadership development, and systems-level improvement.
AEA consultants serve as collaborators, thought partners, leaders, and critical friends. They work alongside and with educators to coach, consult, problem-solve, plan, and implement practices tailored to the unique needs of schools and students. Whether through professional learning, coaching, co-planning, or data analysis, AEA staff provide meaningful support that helps educators stay connected to a shared mission focused on student success and positively impacting the lives of students.
Connections are vital and always within reach. Whether through a colleague down the hall, a coach, or a partner at Central Rivers AEA, there are people ready to support and collaborate. The work of education is too important to do in isolation. When relationships are strong and deep connections are established, students benefit!
Tesha Moser-Zimmerman is the Executive Director of Educational Services with Central Rivers AEA, with offices in Cedar Falls, Clear Lake and Marshalltown. She is also the Administrator of Educational Services & Associate Administrator at Keystone AEA, based in Elkader. She can be reached at tmoser@centralriversaea.org. Central Rivers AEA serves over 5,000 K-12 educators in 18 counties of north central Iowa to improve outcomes for over 60,000 students.