After a long summer, how do you get teachers excited about returning for a new school year? Actually, teaching is such a calling to so many that most return with optimism that they’ll make a difference every year.
On the morning of August 16, 2023, three school districts collaborated to make Opening Day special. Approximately 1100 teachers and support staff packed Oyer Auditorium in Waynesboro for the official opening of the 2023 – 2024 school year.
After a continental breakfast, Superintendents Rita Sterner-Hine from Waynesboro, Lura Hanks from Greencastle Antrim and Rod Benedick from Tuscarora kicked off the program by thanking all and introducing guest speaker George Couros.
Mr Couros is a well known educator and author of “The Innovator’s Mindset”. Couros spoke on student-centered learning, a hallmark of the WASD approach in recent years. This holds that all students can learn and achieve at high levels. He emphasized not only that change is constant, but the rate of change is accelerating, citing an example from social media which references the use of Uber or Lyft by today’s standards.
He emphasized how technology can help teachers and students by enabling learning tailored to individuals.
George has worked at all school levels, from K-12 as a teacher, technology facilitator, and school and district administrator. His guiding belief is to create a collaborative environment with all stakeholders in schools and the community to ensure that we meet the best needs of all children.
The collaboration by uniting three school districts is just what he had in mind. He was well received by teachers and support staff and several book studies will continue throughout the school year.
“This was an amazing opportunity to inspire our staff and to set the tone for a wonderful school year. Hopefully, this collaboration will continue with our educational colleagues in Franklin County!” said Hine.
Classes in Waynesboro and Greencastle Antrim School Districts begin on Wednesday, August 23rd, and in Tuscarora on Thursday, August 24th.
