Yesterday, Bridgeport Public Schools’ 150 new teachers completed a comprehensive four-day New Teacher Orientation. Teachers received the resources and training necessary to prepare for a successful teaching experience.
Throughout the orientation program, teachers gained a broad overview of the school district. One of the highlights of this program was the Model Classroom, in which teachers received a hands-on guide to room design, classroom organization, lesson design and student engagement, developing a curriculum, use of technology, classroom management, and parent communication. New teachers also met their principals, supervisors, school staff, and other new teachers.
“This program gives incoming teachers a real window into what it’s like to work in Bridgeport before they walk in the door on the first day,” said Orientation Director and Bridgeport teacher Kathie Sochacki.
The group of incoming teachers is diverse and includes 15 Teach for America teachers from around the country and 15 teachers from India. Participants have found the orientation program beneficial in a variety of aspects. Nizamuddin Ameersyed, one of teachers from India, will teach ninth grade math at Bassick. “This is all new to the teachers from India, especially the new technology. The program has been very informative,” he said. “I am going to implement all that I have learned in the classroom. I’m now anxiously awaiting the first day of school.”
Darytzabel Morales, a new sixth grade bilingual teacher at Blackham School, feels more confident as a result of the orientation. “This orientation has been wonderful. I was nervous about my placement at first, but this program has been so helpful,” she said. “I feel more competent and now I know I can make a difference. I’m ready to start the school year.” Morales, a former Bridgeport bilingual student, and hopes to be a good role model for her students. “I look forward to giving back to the community. I’m very excited,” she added.
“We have a very enthusiastic group and the feedback from the new teachers has been excellent,” said Carole Pannozzo, Executive Director of Human Resources. “I am very optimistic about the competency of these teachers and their ability to walk into the classroom and teach our students.”
Orientation is only the beginning of professional development for Bridgeport’s new teachers. Teachers will reconvene throughout the school year to receive additional training and assistance.
Bridgeport’s New Teacher Orientation has been recognized by author Harry Wong in his book First Days of School. The State Department of Education has also recognized the orientation for its innovative program.
