WVCSD welcomes new teachers for 2024

Last Tuesday, Warwick Valley Central School District welcomed 16 new teachers to its 2024 New Teacher Orientation, a two-day intake and introduction led by Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Leach and Cindy Leandro, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources. The new cohort gathered at the district office to kick off the festivities with a light breakfast and motivational talk from Dr. Leach.

He encouraged the new teachers, some of whom are new to the field and some of whom are new to Warwick, to take the time to “take it all in,” and embrace and enjoy their new roles and environments.

“You are in a great special place,” said Dr. Leach. “Each building has its own culture, each position its own responsibilities and challenges, and, of course, rewards. But nevertheless, we come together as a single team, grounded in our mission to support the educational, emotional, and physical well-being of our students.”

Dr. Leach also talked to the new teachers about Warwick Valley’s ongoing commitment to curriculum design, and how it ensures that all Warwick faculty have the pedagogy to continue moving the district forward. He also encouraged the teachers to challenge students to chase their aspirations, while giving them the knowledge and tools to achieve them.

“That’s what we’re aiming for her; I want them to dream big,” said Dr. Leach. “Have high aspirations and really go for it. But, to execute, to accomplish them, it takes a lot of small steps and measures. That can take years, and that’s part of learning – when you’re a student and when you’re an adult.”

Following Dr. Leach, teachers were introduced to other district administrators, including Principals, Associate Principals and department heads, by WVMS Principal Jared Yapkowitz. Each administrator shared some details about their background, their role in the district, and some words of advice. The new teachers got a particular kick out of WVMS Associate Principal Chris Radon’s introduction, which mentioned his inclusion in the Wildcats Hall of Fame as a former Wildcats quarterback!

A specific highlight of the New Teacher Orientation every year is the district-wide bus ride. Following the yearly new teacher group photo, all 16 teachers, along with Dr. Leach and Ms. Leandro, boarded a WV school bus to tour the four school buildings and grounds. They were met by building administration, faculty and staff at each stop.

We caught up with a couple of the busy new teachers on Wednesday afternoon to get their take on the New teacher Orientation, and their outlook for the new school year.

“What has stood out for me over these last two days, is just the amount of time that Warwick Valley has invested in getting us up to speed, and really helping us get to know the culture,” said Ben Heyer, who will be teaching technology at WVMS. “And it’s really been amazing to see just how much this community values education. Not just the school community, but all of Warwick. It’s great to know I’ll be teaching in a place like Warwick, where everyone is on the same page, and understands the value of good schools, and is so supportive. I’m looking forward to just getting started, getting to know the students, and having a great year!”

Pat Reiser, who teaches Technology at WVHS, echoed Mr. Heyer’s sentiments about the Warwick Valley community, and said that he is looking forward to being part of a Warwick tradition that he has heard so much about.

“I cannot wait for homecoming,” said Mr. Reiser. “I mean, Warwick does homecoming like no one else. The school spirit here, Wildcat spirit, is incredible. I’ve heard about it from all kinds of people, I’ve seen the pictures, I’ve seen the videos, I just can’t wait to be a part of that.”

Other topics covered during the morning sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday included “Engagement vs. Compliance” with the WVHS administrative team, “Curriculum & Instruction 101” presented by Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, Meghan McGourty, presentations on mental health and the Special Education program by David Albert, Director of Pupil Personnel Services, and Elizabeth DeFrancesco, Director of Special Education, “Effective Communication with Families” by elementary Principals Bill Biniaris and Johnna Maraia, and a presentation on school safety measures and procedures by the district’s Safety and Security Coordinator Walter Beatty.

Both days saw each teacher working closely with their mentor teachers, and Day 2 wrapped up with them having some time to head off and work independently in their newly assigned schools and classrooms.

“We had a great week welcoming in this new group of teachers, getting to know them better, and seeing just how much enthusiasm and interest, not to mention great ideas, they brought to this year’s orientation,” said Ms. Leandro. “I couldn’t be more excited for them, and to kick off another amazing year.”