The Public Schools of the Tarrytowns Welcomes New Professionals

The Public Schools of the Tarrytowns welcomed their newly hired educators on August 23 as part of their New Educator Orientation. Throughout the day they took part in an activity that was designed to create bonds, help them become acclimated to their new work environment, and gain a better understanding of the district’s culture.

The day began when Superintendent Dr. Raymond Sanchez welcomed the newest group of educators to the Public School of the Tarrytowns. He spoke about the district as a whole and gave a speech about finding your marigold. On display behind him was an image of a marigold with a quote that stated Marigolds protect and nurture other plants. Our marigold is someone we can vent to, laugh with, cry with. Someone who can hug us and lift us up and protect us from negativity. Someone who inspires us and pushes us to be our best! We all need marigolds. Dr. Sanchez wrapped up his introduction by sharing pieces of his personal life and his love for education.

Dr. Jessica Kingsbury, Director of Technology for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns, spoke next to the group. She welcomed them to the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns and then joyfully explained the day’s event, “The Amazing R.A.C.E.,” an activity she created in great detail. She explained the meaning behind R.A.C.E. (Rock It!, Adventure, Collaborate, and Explore) and how it tied into their day of team-building activities. The event was meticulously planned to contain tasks that align with the district’s Portrait of a Learner (POL).

“Dr. Kingsbury worked extremely hard on the orientation. She came up with the idea, thought out and planned each detail to ensure the day went smoothly,” said Dr. Felipe Orozco, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction and Equity. “It was a huge undertaking, but she did a fantastic job.”

The new hires were broken up into groups based on what building they will be working in, and they each received a Tarrytown t-shirt, adorned with the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns logo on the front and #HorsemenPride on the back.

The teams enthusiastically headed on a scavenger hunt throughout the buildings. Each clue brought them to a new location where they were met by an administrator who guided them to a team-building activity. The POL activities provided the new educators an immersive experience where they became the student for a moment and received a lesson on POL.

“There are eight stations in total. Each one has to do with our Portrait of a Learner. The goal is to have the educators participate in critical thinking tasks, allowing them to gain knowledge on how POL helps students learn how to face challenges and achieve personal growth,” said Dr. Kingsbury.

The last clue brought everyone back to where they began. By the end of the orientation, the newly hired educators had smiles on their faces and a better understanding of what it means to be part of the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns and what Horsemen Pride is all about.