Morgan County Schools opened on Tuesday with over 20 new staff members joining the community and school system.
New school personnel began their academic year by meeting for trainings on Morgan County Schools procedures, curriculum and goals.
New teachers gathered on Tuesday, August 8 to meet County Directors, complete paperwork, and begin required training. Teachers then attended a luncheon at The Pines, sponsored by members of the Chamber of Commerce. The Culinary Department provided a “boxed lunch” and led the teachers on a tour of the building.
“This event is always the highlight at the beginning of the school year,” says Kandy Pentoney, Director of Elementary Curriculum and Instruction, who has worked with the new teachers in Morgan County for 14 years. “The excitement and eagerness to begin a career in my hometown is inspirational.”
All new teachers were invited to participate in Capturing Kids’ Hearts training at Warm Springs Middle School on Wednesday and Thursday. All Morgan County Schools’ staff have been engaged in this training, an initiative led by Kristen Tuttle, Superintendent of Schools. The training is centered on building relationships with students and empowering them to succeed.
This initial stage of training ended at the Morgan County Board of education on Friday, August 11 as teachers learned about the curriculum they will use with students. Professional learning continued on Monday, August 14 with their colleagues, where they continued to prepare to meet their students and families.
“Whether new or experienced, adrenaline keeps all educators going through the beginning days of the school year,” Pentoney said.
Experienced and well-trained teachers serve as mentors to new teachers. They observe, support, listen, and find resources that new teachers may need throughout the school year.
“Responses from new teachers on end of year surveys clearly show that new teachers highly value their mentors. This relationship creates a bond that lasts a lifetime,” said Pentoney.