The Elmont Union Free School District welcomed more than 40 staff members during its new teacher orientation, held Aug. 26-27. Designed to help employees begin the school year with confidence, the two-day program introduced participants to the district’s programs, expectations, resources and culture while fostering meaningful connections with colleagues and administrators.

Throughout the orientation, new staff members engaged with district leaders and gained valuable insight into the systems and supports that contribute to both scholar and staff success. Presentations were led by representatives from Curriculum and Instruction, Human Resources, Technology, Pupil Personnel Services and the Social-Emotional Learning team.

The program opened with a warm welcome from Superintendent of Schools Marlon C. Small and Elmont Elementary Teachers’ Association President Deborah Buchanan. Together, they emphasized the importance of collaboration, building relationships and maintaining a shared commitment to supporting every Elmont student.

Under the theme, “Our Curriculum Compass: Guidance for the First Year,” Director of Curriculum and Instruction Pamela Stamidis and the district’s instructional coaches provided new educators with tools and strategies to successfully navigate their first year in the classroom. The session highlighted the district’s curriculum programs, instructional initiatives and available instructional resources.

During “Navigating Digital Resources and Safety Protocols with Confidence,” Director of Technology Fernando DeBartolo introduced staff members to the district’s digital platforms. He also reviewed safety protocols. 

Human Resources and employee support services were another important focus. Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Administration Dr. Johane Ligondé presented “Your HR Roadmap: Navigating Benefits, Policies, and Resources,” providing staff with important information about district procedures, employee benefits and professional resources available throughout the school year.

The orientation also highlighted the district’s commitment to students’ social and emotional well-being. In “The Heart of the Journey: Social-Emotional Learning,” Gotham Avenue School Social Worker Fanny Iglesias and Gotham Avenue School Counselor Paola Molina shared strategies for creating welcoming and supportive learning environments where scholars feel connected, valued and prepared to succeed.

During “Every Learner, Every Step: Reaching Every Child,” Director of Pupil Personnel Services Ozlem Artukmac, Assistant Director of Pupil Personnel Services Helisse Palmore and Clara H. Carlson School speech therapist Corrine Kudel introduced participants to the district’s approach to supporting the diverse academic, developmental and individual needs of all learners, ensuring that every student has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

One of the highlights of the two-day program was “Exploring Your New District: An Elmont Bus Tour.” Led by retired Gotham Avenue Principal Marshall Zucker, the tour gave new staff members the opportunity to visit each of the district’s six school buildings, learn more about the community and gain a deeper understanding of the district they now call home.

New teacher orientation reflected the district’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that every new staff member feels welcomed, supported and prepared for a successful school year. By bringing together district leaders, experienced educators and support professionals, the program provided a strong foundation for new employees as they begin their journey as members of the Elmont school community.