The North Bellmore School District enthusiastically welcomed 16 educators to the professional staff during new teacher orientation on Aug. 12. Less than three weeks before the start of the school year, they gathered in the Martin Avenue Elementary School library for introductions and informational sessions.

New teacher orientation began with greetings from Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Janet Pollitt and Director of Education Programs and Staff Development Tillie McNamara. Superintendent Marie Testa introduced the new faculty members to North Bellmore’s mission statement and core values, as well as its work implementing the Portrait of a Graduate. The morning also included workshops on effective lesson planning and instructional technology, along with a welcome from the North Bellmore Teachers Association.

The district’s new teachers were selected following a rigorous hiring process and filled several positions including grade-level, English as a new language, music, physical education and reading teachers; a teacher for the ALPHA gifted and talented program; a psychologist and a speech language pathologist. They will work across North Bellmore’s five elementary schools. In the afternoon, they participated in breakout sessions with seasoned educators in their respective areas.

“We’re really excited about the new teachers that we’ve selected to work with our students and hope they have long and prosperous careers in North Bellmore,” Ms. McNamara said. “We are confident that they will help us achieve our mission in creating an environment for all learners to grow and thrive.”