A process that began about four months ago culminated in the gathering of 22 new teachers in the Wantagh Middle School library on Aug. 26. The first-year faculty members will work across the Wantagh School District’s five buildings, teaching a variety of grade levels and subject areas. 

Dr. Stephanie Scolieri, executive director for human resources, said that the search for educators to fill open positions began in April, with screenings, interviews and demo lessons. It was a very competitive year, she noted, with nearly 1,000 applicants just for elementary teacher positions. 

“Hiring new teachers is a very thorough process to ensure we have the best of the best for our students,” Dr. Scolieri said. “We want all of our educators to succeed and we provide them with the tools necessary to achieve that success.”

New teacher orientation is a two-day program that gives them the ins and outs of the district. Following a welcome from Superintendent John McNamara the first morning, teachers heard from several administrators on topics such as inspirational learning and effective communication. Then, they were off to the schools to meet with their building administrators. The second day featured a bus tour of the district and a technology overview, during which teachers received their Chromebooks. 

Throughout the year, new teachers will attend monthly workshops to aid them in their professional growth. The sessions will be led by central and building principals, focused on a variety of areas such as best instructional practices, library resources, special education services and teacher observations.