If asked, most classroom teachers will say one of the most valued aspects of teaching is their autonomyautonomy. Despite the importance of professional independence, the solitary nature of teaching can be overwhelming and often leaves teachers feeling isolated. Building a school cultureculture that fosters collegial relationships while still promoting autonomy is critical to attracting and keeping effective teachers, paraprofessionals, tutors, substitutes, etc. Mentoring programs are typically the first step to building connections between new staff members and veteran educators, but this process can be inadequate, usually focusing more on orientationorientation than actual onboardingonboarding. Investing time and resources to provide more intentional, substantive experiences for new staff shapes their experiences and cultivates a more positive school culture. This investment in relationships is a critical step in building strong teams and facilitating an environment that encourages professional growth and capacity building.