Ricardo Logan (pictured at right) attends his third PAC event at Columbus High School. (photo submitted)
BRONX, NY – How does a new teacher survive in a system as large as the New York City Department of Education? The importance of professional development and networking is near the top of the list, and one Truman teacher took his learning outside the building this fall to build his network as part of a Professional Affinity Community, or “PAC.”
“I got involved because I thought it was a great outlet and a great platform to help other men of color… just men in general because there’s a need for men in the classroom.” said math teacher Ricardo Logan.
The PACs were hosted by NYC Men Teach. It’s an organization that “engages and recruits men of color to become teachers in New York City by providing early career support, professional development, mentoring and networking services,” according to their website.
Logan says he found the PAC events taught him a lot about the vast array of opportunities available to help him thrive as a new teacher in New York City.
“There are a lot of different resources that are available to me as a teacher,” Logan said. “Different outlets from places that you can go for professional development, resources for your classroom, education on financial literacy… Just a lot things that just help you grow as a person and a teacher.”
The third PAC event was held right here in the Bronx at Columbus High School with more planned for the remainder of the school year. Mr. Logan says he looks forward continuing with the program.
“I’m new to New York, so it’s refreshing to have people in similar situations as you,” Logan said. “So it has definitely been a plus for me.”