How to Find (or Build) Your Teacher Support Circle

Laura Elizabeth
May 23
2 min read

Let’s be honest, teaching can feel incredibly isolating, even when you're surrounded by students and staff. Between the demands of the day and the endless to-do list, finding real support—people who "get it" can feel impossible. But here’s the truth: you need a teacher support circle. Not just coworkers. Not just a PLC but a safe, solid group that lifts you up when you feel like crumbling. Here’s how to find it, or build it from scratch.

1. Start Small, Start Real

Your support circle doesn’t need to be a group chat of 12. Sometimes one or two people who listen without judgment and offer genuine encouragement are all you need. Look around your building—who feels safe? Who do you breathe easier around?

Tip: Invite someone to lunch or coffee and just talk—about life, not just lesson plans. Connection grows from real conversation.

2. Find “Your People” Online

If your school feels isolating, go digital. There are incredible teacher communities on Instagram, TikTok, Reddit, Facebook groups, and even X. Look for hashtags like #TeacherSupport #TeachersOfInstagram or #TeacherLife.

Start by following:

Teachers who share the highs and the lows
Groups for teachers in your grade/content area
Mental health-focused teacher spaces

You’ll be surprised how many educators are seeking the same thing: honest, kind connections.

3. Create a Safe Space at School

If the culture in your school is all grind and gossip, consider starting something new:

A weekly “vent + victory” lunch club
A shared space for encouraging notes
Many schools are now creating Zen Dens for teachers with comfy chairs, soft music, puzzles, and aroma therapy. We have one in every building!

4. Ask for What You Need

It's hard to be vulnerable, but sometimes support doesn't come because no one knows what you’re carrying. Try saying:

“I’m really struggling with ___, have you ever dealt with that?”
“Would you mind talking this through with me?”
“Do you want to team up on ___? It might help us both.”

The right people won’t see this as weakness, instead, they’ll see it as strength. And they’ll meet you where you are.

5. Be the Support You’re Seeking

Support circles are built on mutual care. Check in. Share a resource. Leave a kind note. Celebrate someone else’s small win. The more generous you are, the more that energy returns to you.

Final Thoughts:

Your teacher support circle doesn’t have to be big, perfect, or even in your building. But you deserve people who remind you that you’re not alone, that your work matters, and that it’s okay to be human in a job that sometimes feels superhuman.