Freeport Welcomes Nearly 40 New Teachers

The Freeport Public School District welcomed 38 new teachers at an orientation attended by members of the board of education and administrators prior to the start of the 2016-17 school year.

The new faculty members will begin their Freeport careers across the district’s eight schools on Sept. 1. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham offered words of advice to the teachers and encouraged them to make a difference in students’ lives.

“You’re not here by chance,” Kuncham said. “You have been chosen, and you have come here for a great purpose to be on a journey with all of us — bringing your energy, your enthusiasm, your heart and your soul, and everything that you have for our children. We are confident that you will do whatever it takes to energize our organization, inspire our kids, bring the very best out of them so that they can reach their truest potential and rise to your own truest potential.”

Dr. Mary Bediako, assistant superintendent for personnel and special projects, administered a pledge to the new teachers, who vowed that they would provide a safe and positive classroom environment for all students.

“You took that pledge with me and I’m going to hold you to it,” she said. “We are here to help you and to guide you. It’s going to be challenging, but also rewarding. We welcome all of you to Freeport.”

Each teacher was then provided with the book, “Teach Like a Champion” by Doug Lemov. The group then collectively received a bus tour of the district, visiting the buildings where they will soon begin making their marks.

Photo: Freeport Public Schools.