CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA)-- The start of the new school year is near. But students aren't the only ones getting ready -- Central Illinois teachers are too.

A group of them met this week to encourage each other before that first school bell rings.

Teachers usually encourage students to collaborate and brainstorm with one another. However, this week, they took some of their own advice.

Teachers from all around Central Illinois including places like Shelbyville, Danville, Milford, even Eastern Illinois University. Teachers said that it was a great networking opportunity, and it all leads back to how they can better the future and opportunities for their students.

Laurie Grant, an elementary school teacher from Danville, said a big part of her job is not only teaching students about language

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