Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen kicked off its new school year with a detailed and engaging new teacher orientation. The event, hosted at James A. Dever Elementary School, aimed to ensure a successful start to the academic year by providing new and probationary faculty with essential insights and tools.
The day began with a warm welcome from Dr. Lorraine Radice, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction who provided an overview of Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen and its commitment to educational excellence. New hires were introduced to key members of the leadership team, including representatives from Human Resources, Special Services, and Instructional Technology. The day’s activities included community-building exercises designed to foster collaboration and camaraderie among the new staff.
On the second day, the focus shifted to faculty in their four-year probationary period. Participants engaged in targeted professional development workshops tailored to their specific roles. The sessions covered a range of topics essential for their success, including introductions to instructional programs, personalizing learning through small group instruction, social-emotional learning, goal setting and reflection, and effective lesson planning. The day also featured community-building activities to strengthen relationships among the cohort.
The final day of orientation continued with faculty in their four-year probationary period. The day’s agenda included community-building activities and goal-setting sessions, providing an opportunity for faculty to establish clear objectives for the year ahead. A key component of the day was individual meetings with their respective principals, fostering a deeper understanding of school-specific expectations and support structures.
2024-2025 New Hires:
- Lily McGuire – Reading Teacher
- Jennifer Skehan – Speech Teacher
- Jacquilyn Smith – Speech Teacher
- Eddie Guzman – Special Education
- Julia Lafferty – Special Education
- Caroline Kinne – Special Education
- Amanda Garcia – Social Worker
- Dmeriah Cuavers – Psychologist
- Deniz Gumusdere – ENL Teacher
- Edward Cotty – Grade 6 Teacher
- Leslie Pena – Grade 2 Teacher
- Lauren Woodrow – Grade 6 Teacher
- Masiel Gomez – Grade 5 Teacher
- Colleen Reedy Steinmann – Grade 6 Teacher
- Jenna Lanin – Speech Teacher
- Karina Yu – Reading Teacher
- Elisabeth Perlegis – Kindergarten Teacher
- Dr. Lorraine Radice – Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction
The comprehensive orientation program underscores Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen’s dedication to ensuring that all educators are well-prepared and supported as they embark on their journey with the district. The district looks forward to a successful school year, enriched by the enthusiasm and expertise of its new and probationary faculty.
