As I sit here reflecting on the tragic events that have unfolded this year across the world, I am also thinking of our future. I see many implications for our profession. It is more important than ever that we help build bridges of understanding. In the words of Malala Yousafzai, “I think that the best way to solve problems and to fight against war is through dialogue. For me the best way to fight against terrorism and extremism . . . just a simple thing: educate the next generation. . . . Extremists have shown what frightens them most. A girl with a book.” I wrote this opening to our TEIS business meeting in April, and still, every day as I read the news, I am reminded of the numerous implications for our profession. It is more important than ever that we help build bridges of understanding.

I know that the future of TEIS is secure with our new leadership: Laura Baecher, our chair, Andrea Hellman, our chair-elect, and Kate Mastruserio-Reynolds. Together with our newsletter editor Fatma Ghailan, newsletter book review editor Jillian Baldwin Kim, and community manager Nikki Ashcraft, much work has already been done to build bridges between our membership, supporting professional development. I am thrilled to see our Facebook page managed by Fatma. Also, I am impressed with the first TEIS webinar on the edTPA that Laura put together. Additionally, Fatma and Jillian have been hard at work editing the newsletter. Thanks to everyone who submitted! If you have any other suggestions, please feel free to contact any of us. We are happy to serve!

Wishing you peace and love,

Angela Bell, PhD