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September 01 2010
Schenectady Welcomes New Teachers
Orientation kicks off with breakfast and get-together
 The
Schenectady City School District welcomed nearly 80 new teachers
at a breakfast and social yesterday morning at Mallozzi’s
Restaurant. The get-together kicked off a 3-day orientation
program in which the new teachers participate in professional
development sessions, informational seminars, get their
identification photos taken, learn about health insurance and
benefits, receive important check lists, spend some time with
their principals and in their buildings, and work in their
classrooms.
 Superintendent
John Yagielski, Schenectady Mayor Brian Stratton and school
board president Cathy Lewis each spoke briefly and extended warm
welcomes to the teachers who represented various grades, schools
and almost every subject area. School principals joined their
new teachers for breakfast and introduced them to the board
members, guests and other district staff who were on hand to
meet and greet the newest members of the district.
Yagielski first told the teachers he could have used a “new
superintendent orientation,” when he came to the district about
two months ago and explained he is still becoming oriented
himself.
“I am pleased to have our new teachers joining us today,” said
Yagielski. “I’m really excited about today.”
Yagielski told the teachers that they are part of the 156th
opening in the school district. “This district has a long and
distinguished record,” he said. “We plan to make this year the
most distinguished.”
The superintendent urged the teachers to focus first and
foremost on teaching and learning. “This is the most important
thing we do. Most important to students is their teacher,”
said Yagielski.
 “I
expect this year will be a challenging year but it will also be
rewarding,” said Lewis.
“A new day has started to dawn,” she added, “but that doesn’t
mean it’s a bed of roses.” She briefly mentioned fiscal
challenges and standards. “They will be what they will be,” she
said. “And we will do our best.”
Lewis also poked fun at the
Schenectady-Shenedehowa football rivalry and questionable call
from last season that resulted in a Schenectady loss. "The
standings will show ... and we will prove that we are better
than Shen," said Lewis.
Lewis said she is optimistic
about the district and referenced the superintendent's "around
the town chats." "It's important that we have transparent
leadership, that we are clear and have input from all," said
Lewis. "We are counting on you to give your best," said
Lewis. "Help our students learn."
"We are the board of
education," said Lewis. "We are here to help you."
Schenectady Mayor Brian Stratton expressed that he is pleased
with the district leadership. “We are fortunate to have a man
of his intellect, caliber and commitment,” said Stratton of the
district’s new superintendent.
 Stratton
also said that he has known school board president Cathy Lewis
for many years and that she brings many skills. “Your school
board is led by an individual that has tremendous commitment to
detail,” said Stratton. He said she is inquisitive and
committed.
“We have a tremendous partnership between the school district
and the city,” said Stratton. “Today is important as we
welcome a new crop of teachers, new leadership and as we work
hand in hand to make Schenectady the most attractive city and
school district that we can.”
“I salute you and wish you well,” said the mayor. “I look
forward to working with the school board and superintendent.”
The breakfast buffet, sponsored by Key Bank, was coordinated by
the new teacher orientation committee led by Mariann Bellai.
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