We have had such an amazing week last week! I am so happy that all of the students and staff are back. Below is a brief re-cap of our excitement from my vantage point. We had our first staff day last Monday. I had the honor of being invited to the HS welcome back breakfast. It was wonderful to see the staff back and so quickly engaged in their work. Throughout the day, teachers had meetings, participated in PD, worked on their rooms, and re-connected with colleagues. Steve Byrne (Director of Buildings and Grounds), Luke Callahan (Director of Technology, Information, and Media Relations), and I did a tour of all of the buildings to review the work that was completed over the summer and also to review some upcoming projects based on our needs. A hearty thank you to Mr. Byrne and all of the custodial and maintenance staff for their wonderful work preparing for the start of school. Last Tuesday started off with our staff welcome back presentations. It was a great pleasure to provide my convocation address. Then, we had the pleasure of hearing from Russell Johnson, the Senior Associate Commissioner from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education who also welcomed the staff back. Next, Alison Manugian (School Committee Chair) gave a very uplifting welcome to staff followed by an equally positive and uplifting presentation from Adam Snodgrass (GDEA President). After the main opening day addresses, Lyn Snow (our new Director of Pupil Personnel Services) presented to the special education staff district-wide, and the remaining staff returned to their buildings. Wednesday brought the kids! It was so wonderful to see them. I had the distinct pleasure of visiting the HS, both MS buildings, Florence Roche and Swallow Union. Dr. Novak and Mr. Callahan joined me. Mr. Callahan took some great pictures that we have been using in our media relations work. Lastly, Dr. Novak and I visited Boutwell and the Twomey Center on Friday to round off our first week school tours. Our intention is that all central office staff will be visible in the schools throughout the entire school year. |