District 13 shows new teachers and staff the ropes

The new school year is in full swing. But days before Valley Stream District 13 opened its doors to hundreds of its incoming students, district officials welcomed its newest teachers and staff during a three-day orientation at Howell Road Elementary School.

On day one of the orientation, Superintendent Judith LaRocca greeted the new faculty before administrators gave a rundown on three key topics: special education services, school technology, and contractual benefits. The topic speakers were Executive Director of Special Services Lisa Dunn, Director of Instructional Technology and Innovation Andrea DiMango, and Assistant Superintendent for Business Gerard Antoine.

On day two, the new teachers went over how to best engage students and maximize participation through the latest, research-based teaching methods such as total participation techniques and the Danielson Instructional Framework which breaks teacher responsibilities into four categories: planning and preparation, classroom environment, instruction, and personal responsibilities.

In keeping with the district’s diversity, equity, and inclusion policy, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Fabayo McIntosh spoke to the new hires about building a culture of belonging and goal setting. And on the last day of orientation, the new teachers were able to meet with their respective building principals.

“The New Teacher Orientation was a great opportunity for our new hires to become acquainted with each other and district goals and expectations,” said McIntosh. “I am thrilled with our new group of teachers, and I am confident that they will be a great addition to our school district and community.”