The back-to-school beginning teacher orientation empowered the school district’s newest educators with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration they needed to kick off the school year on a positive note. More than 50 teachers attended the event that was held at both the Education Center and the Freedman Center from Aug. 15 through Aug. 18.

"The 2023 group of beginning teachers began their journey in the Caldwell County School System with a focus on district expectations and state requirements,” said Heather Puhl, Beginning Teacher Mentor. “They also identified innovative ways to engage students in the learning process, while making connections with other staff members who will assist them in their growth and development throughout the year."

The conference was designed to support and welcome talented educators. They participated in sessions ranging in topics from the Importance of Professionalism to Promoting Workplace Safety to Teacher Licensure. Throughout the event, education directors shared information relative to their departmental responsibilities that would assist beginning teachers in their new roles.

Bill Griffin, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources emphasized that events such as the orientation addressed purposeful, strategic support for teachers within their first three years of teaching. “This support is necessary to provide our beginning teachers with assistance in classroom management, lesson planning, peer interactions, and balancing work and life,” Griffin said. 

In addition to meeting other teachers and learning about helpful resources, teachers were taught about creating a positive classroom and having high expectations for student behavior. Some of the other desired outcomes reached during the orientation sessions included a review of the North Carolina Teacher Evaluation process, an awareness of different student populations and how best to serve them, and the opportunity to reflect on the journey of becoming an educator and how to best serve students.

“We are committed to providing them with the support and resources they need to excel in their roles and make a lasting impact on our student’s lives. These targeted supports will hopefully create an enjoyable work environment and increase their longevity and retention with Caldwell County Schools,” Griffin said