FBISD’s annual New Teacher Orientation was held in August for all instructional staff who are new to the District. The event gave participants the opportunity to learn about the school district, curriculum, and best teaching practices; meet our Superintendent, Dr. Timothy Jenney and FBISD Board Members; and network with colleagues from across the District.
Guy Doud, former National Teacher of the Year and award-winning author, served as the keynote speaker. He spoke about the various issues students bring to school and how educators are well-equipped to deal with those issues and challenges. Ron Nash, a former secondary school teacher and author of five Corwin Press bestsellers, was the featured presenter. He used music to model powerful strategies teachers can use to invigorate lesson plans and shift students from being passive observers to active participants in their own learning.
NTO participants also learned about important Human Resources/Benefits information, and teachers who are new to the profession received mentors to support them throughout the year through Project INVEST.
FBISD thanks the 2011 New Teacher Orientation sponsors and planning team for making the event a success. The NTO Team members in alphabetical order are: Dr. Olwen Herron, Chief Academic Officer; and Organizational Development staff – Dianne Kirby, Administrative Assistant; Dr. Alice Ledford, Coordinator; Beth Martinez, former Director; Bridget Morrison, eLearning Specialist; Nancy Phan, Administrative Assistant; Gwyn Touchet, Coordinator; and Yolanda Young, Coordinator – with special assistance from Jamie Vincek, English Language Arts teacher and Jan McDonald, Coordinator Substitute.