WCSD welcomes new teachers to district

On Monday morning, Washingtonville Central School District held its annual New Teacher Orientation, welcoming 25 teachers, three teaching assistants and three teacher aides to the WCSD community.

New Teacher Orientation serves as a way for teachers throughout the district to get to know each other, and become familiar with the resources and processes at WCSD.

“To start, I am very thrilled,” said Lynn Imperato, the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. “At Washingtonville, we have three pillars that we focus on, Student Experience, Academic Excellence, and Community Connection. When I refer to ‘Academic Excellence,’ I know that it starts with you.It’s the classroom teachers, the teaching assistants, and the people in the room, and I am extremely excited to see what you are going to bring to our students this year.”

The meeting continued with an introduction of WCSD administrators who shared a few of their personal and professional goals for the upcoming year.

The new teachers introduced themselves and got a chance to learn a little bit about each other and their backgrounds. Superintendent Dr. Larry Washington began the next session by having everyone read, “Find Your Marigold,” by Jennifer Gonzalez.

“Find Your Marigold” is a blog post that advises first-year teachers to find their marigold, which is someone who offers protection, helps them succeed and encourages their growth – similar to how marigolds in a garden protect vegetables. While seeking out marigolds, readers are also encouraged to be wary of walnut trees, which farmers avoid planting in their gardens because they can inhibit growth, wilt and ultimately kill nearby vegetable plants.

“I shared this reading with you guys because it’s universal in every district,” said Dr. Washington. “In my own style of how I work and function in the building, and how I lead as an educator show that the people you have around you are everything.”“As the new teachers in the district, you guys are the people who change culture,” Dr. Washington said.

“We have our own culture but you will bring who you are to dictate that culture. It’s your job to surround yourself with marigolds in the building and not walnuts.”

“Let us be your marigolds,” said Marguerite Fusco, the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. “If there is anything we can do to support you, please don’t hesitate to pick up the phone.”

Teachers also received a “Marigolds Moments” journal, encouraging them to document any moments of joy and success they encounter throughout the year.

Please visit the district photo gallery to view more photos from the day