Welcome Back

Dear Middle and High School Staff,

Welcome back to a new school year! The first official day for teachers and paraprofessionals is August 19th. I hope you all had an enjoyable summer and that this letter finds you well-rested and excited for the journey ahead. As we reopen our doors, I want to express my appreciation for your dedication and commitment to our students, community, and profession. Teachers' impact on our students’ lives is immeasurable—you heal hearts and minds, change lives, and shape futures.

The field of public education is constantly evolving. We must stay informed about educational trends and adapt our practices to best serve each generation while remaining true to our local values and beliefs. Last year, school personnel, students, parents, and community members collaborated to create Whitehall School’s Portrait of a Graduate. This document provides a comprehensive framework outlining the key skills, attributes, and knowledge we expect students to possess when they graduate. Alongside the Portrait of a Graduate, our Middle/High School-wide goals are:

• Providing a safe, positive environment focused on learning

• Setting high expectations for behavior and learning

• Using data to make informed decisions about behavior, instruction, and learning

• Increasing awareness of the great things happening in our schools

In addition to these goals, I encourage us to develop pride and ownership in our schools continually. I ask each of you to think of a proud moment from last year that you can share with the rest of our staff during our first meeting. Don’t overthink it—choose something simple that makes you smile.

We are thrilled to have you as part of our dedicated team. This year, we welcome one new teacher: Miss Shawna McCoy, our new Family and Consumer Science teacher. I’m excited to support the addition of this program to our schools. Additionally, Miss Breanna Ostrander is our new 6-12 secretary, and Mr. Salvagni has moved into the AD position. Thank you all for sharing your time and talents with Whitehall Schools.

I look forward to another successful year of growth, discovery, and achievement.

We are mission-focused, student-centered, and goal-driven.

Sincerely,