The district hosted its annual New Teacher Orientation for new and untenured staff from Aug. 27-29. Coordinated by Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Jennifer Lewner, the orientation period allowed the new staff members to get acclimated to the district and provided extra professional development for untenured staff who have served the district for 2-3 years.
 
On day one, new staff members including Gabriella Cunzo, Karen Glynn, Lauren Langtry, Michelle Mahon and Jennifer Spiwak received a warm welcome from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nicholas Stirling and reviewed the district’s strategic plan. They also heard from Assistant Superintendent for Business Brian Phillips, Director of Special Services Dr. Nicole Schimpf, Forest Road Assistant Principal/District RTI Coordinator Michael DeBlasio and Administrative Director for 21st Century Learning Susan Rodriguez.
 
Untenured staff joined the five new teachers on days two and three at Washington Avenue School. They received advice from building administrators, participated in a balanced literacy workshop and a response to intervention workshop. On the final day, the staff engaged in EdCamp sessions led by administrators to support their teaching. The orientation ended with classroom preparation as the staff prepared to take on the 2019-2020 school year.