Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen proudly welcomed its newest educators with a New Teacher Orientation and Professional Development series designed to prepare for a successful and meaningful start to the 2025–2026 school year. The sessions, which took place in late August, combined essential training, collaborative workshops, and community-building activities to support teachers as they begin their journey in the district.
Led by educational leaders and teachers from across the district, the orientation began with a warm welcome from all members of the leadership team, setting the tone for an engaging and supportive professional experience. The new staff participated in a variety of sessions and workshops focused on key areas critical to student success and instructional excellence. These included:
- Community-building activities to foster collaboration and connection
- Strategies for supporting language acquisition and English Language Learners
- Approaches to supporting students who receive special education services
- Goal-setting and reflection exercises to frame the year ahead with purpose
- Strategies for utilizing artificial intelligence as a planning tool for more effective instruction
- Tactics for building a culture of reading and prioritizing literacy throughout the school day
- The importance of read-alouds as a foundational classroom practice
- Support for special area teachers (e.g., art, music, physical education)
- Hands-on lesson planning guidance tailored to meet diverse student needs
These comprehensive sessions reflect the district’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every teacher has the skills, strategies, and support needed to thrive from day one.
“We believe in setting our educators up for success,” said Dr. Lorraine Radice, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. “This orientation is about more than procedures, it’s about building a strong professional community and equipping teachers to meet the needs of every learner.”
Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen is excited to see the incredible impact these new teachers will have in the classroom and across the school community. As the year begins, their enthusiasm and preparation signal a bright future for students and staff alike.
Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen’s New Staff Orientation Day and Professional Development
