Four-Day New Teacher Orientation Was an Engaging Experience 🦊

As the 2026-27 school year approaches, Newark Central School District proudly welcomed 34 new teachers through an engaging four-day _ August 20-21 and 24th-25th _ New Teacher Orientation designed and facilitated by the District's Instructional Coaching Team in collaboration with District leadership.
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It was intentionally crafted to provide new educators with more than just information and resources. Throughout the week, participants had opportunities to build relationships, explore district initiatives, and experience firsthand what it means to be a part of the Newark school community.

"Our Instructional Coaches thoughtfully designed an engaging experience that allowed our new hires to experience and learn what being a part of Newark is all about," said Will Bean, Coordinator of Professional Learning. "We wanted our newest educators to leave not only with important information and resources, but also with meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging."

During the four-day experience, participants engaged in collaborative team-building activities, explored effective instructional practices, learned about district curriculum and technology resources, and gained a deeper understanding of the systems and supports that help Newark students succeed.

John Ginter, Director of MTSS, led a session focused on Newark's systems of support and the district's commitment to meeting the needs of every learner. During his presentation, he shared a message that resonated throughout the week: "Newark is a special place, full of special people, and now you are a part of that group."

The sentiment reflected the welcoming and supportive culture that new educators experienced throughout Orientation.

Including when Board of Education members joined District administrators and staff at the New Teacher Orientation Luncheon Aug. 21st to welcome Newark’s newest educators and professionals.

Board President Russell Harris, Vice President Steve DeRenzo, and Board member Julie Nevelizer introduced themselves and shared their connections to the District and their service on the Board.

Harris welcomed new staff on behalf of the entire Board of Education and emphasized the Board’s commitment to supporting teachers and staff.

“The Board works closely and consistently with the administration to make sure our teachers, staff, and professionals have the resources, tools, and support they need to do their jobs successfully,” he said.

Board members thanked the new employees for choosing Newark and encouraged them to become part of the school community. Their participation in the luncheon reflected the Board’s commitment to building strong relationships with staff and supporting the people who work directly with Newark students each day.

“The Board of Education extends a warm welcome to all of Newark’s new teachers and staff and wishes them a successful and rewarding school year.”

A half-day, building-based experience Aug. 21st, planned and facilitated by building leaders, provided new educators a great opportunity to become familiar with their schools, connect

with colleagues, learn building-specific procedures and expectations, and begin developing relationships with the students, staff, and communities they will serve throughout the year.

Overall, Orientation highlighted Newark's commitment to collaboration, innovation, continuous improvement, and supporting every student, every day. Sessions focused on developing the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for a successful start to the school year while emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with students, families, and colleagues.

The four-day experience wrapped up with new staff members boarding a bus for a tour of the Newark community, providing an opportunity to become more familiar with the neighborhoods, landmarks, businesses, and resources that make Newark a special place to live, learn, and work. The experience ended with an ice cream sundae gathering, creating a fun and memorable opportunity for participants to celebrate the completion of Orientation while continuing to build connections with their colleagues.

"We wanted our newest team members to experience the community that our students and families call home,” Bean said. "Ending the week with a community tour and ice cream social reflected our belief that strong relationships and a sense of belonging are essential to success in Newark."

Newark's 34 newest educators completed Orientation with practical tools, valuable connections, and a deeper understanding of the district's mission and vision. Newark Central School District is excited to welcome these talented professionals and looks forward to the positive impact they will make on students, families, and the entire Newark community.

Bean thanked District staff who contributed to the success of the event including “Sara Finch from District Office as she helped coordinate the logistics and meals. I also want to thank WFL-BOCES and Conference Center Coordinator Jessica Nightingale for allowing us to utilize their conference center during the four days!”