This week, we welcomed more than 60 new teachers and educational support professionals as part of our new staff orientation. It was an awesome three days filled with learning, meeting their mentors, and getting support to hit the ground running on the first day of school.
"We want to make sure that everything that you do is supported by some type of network here in our District," said Assistant Superintendent for Student Learning Dr. Samantha Alaimo as she addressed the crowd of new staff members.
You can view pictures of the New Staff Orientation here.
Dr. Ben Collins is no longer "new" in his role as he starts year two as the District 64 Superintendent, and he shared why he loves this job and the communities of Park Ridge and Niles. "It's a great place, filled with people who care for you deeply and have a lot of heart," said Dr. Collins. "We are going to make sure that you feel that care and compassion every day as an employee, and we will do everything we can to support you."
There was an abundance of excitement in the room—an eagerness to enter their classrooms, enthusiasm to meet their students, and anticipation for this new journey.
"You're ready. You're ready to go," said School Board President Dr. Denise Pearl. "I also want to thank Dr. Alaimo and all the administrators who made these New Staff Orientation Days possible and productive for all of you. It's going to be a great year in District 64."
The school year is upon us. The first day of school for K-8 students is Wednesday, August 14th, and preschoolers arrive on Thursday, August 15th. We can't wait to see all the amazing things this new group of educators will help us achieve!
"From the bottom of my heart, I just want to say thank you. You were invested and eager to learn throughout these three days. You were here to do it with us," said Dr. Alaimo. "I feel so good about the Institute Day on Monday and even better about Wednesday when the kids come into our buildings. It's because of you all sitting here and the great teams we have to support you in each school."