New Milford educators prepare for professional development day on October 11

The New Milford Board of Education meeting on October 5, 2021, focused on several key initiatives and updates affecting the school district. A significant highlight was the upcoming mid-year professional development day scheduled for October 11, where faculty will collaborate to refine their professional development plans. This initiative aims to enhance self-awareness and improvement among educators, fostering a culture of active learning.

Dr. Chrysamalas continues her work with various stakeholder groups, including leadership teams and teacher leaders, to promote constructivist learning theories and adult development. Upcoming discussions with new teachers will cover reflective journaling and growth mindsets, emphasizing the importance of engaging all staff in the educational community.

The meeting also addressed the district's response to the flooding caused by Hurricane Ida on September 1. Business Administrator Dr. Stephanie Pajar provided a detailed timeline of events, highlighting the extensive damage to school facilities, including the field house. She reported that the restoration process is ongoing, with a completion target of October 7. The district is working closely with insurance companies to manage claims related to the damages.

Additionally, the board announced a family series presentation titled "Making the Shift: Turning School Avoidance into School Engagement," scheduled for October 20, aimed at addressing student engagement issues.

In recognition of World Teachers' Day, the board expressed gratitude to all teachers for their contributions to the educational community, underscoring the vital role they play in shaping students' lives.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to professional development, community engagement, and recovery from recent challenges, setting a positive tone for the upcoming months.