The annual Superintendent Conference days kicked off Wednesday, August 28 signaling the official start to the school year for faculty and staff. This year, attendees had one assignment which was to wear their most professional luau attire supporting the theme “Small deeds carry significant influences.” Carol-Ann Winans, Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction K-12, shared how a conversation about Hawaiian culture with Maylani Lee, 2024 class Valedictorian, influenced this year's theme.

As the luau-attired crowd filled the auditorium, attendees were welcomed with bubble blasts, smiles, upbeat music, and dancing thanks to Courtney Eisenzapf and Danielle Luke creating a high-energy atmosphere.

The conference began with brief speeches from Trustee Anthony Greco who encouraged the audience to set goals, try something new, build new connections, and embrace the chance to grow both professionally and personally. Wantagh Middle School Principal Anthony Ciuffo asked that the points of view of others be considered. Athletic Director Jennifer Keane thanked teachers for being our students’ champions. Wantagh United Teachers President Rich Colavita shared that many of our own truths are the things we cling to today. 

Dr. Paul Guzzone and Dr. Christopher Widmann gave an update on the upcoming Wantagh Warrior 9/11 Memorial 5K where over 150 participants are currently registered for the inaugural event.

Adorned in his blue and white luau shirt breaking a 30-year business suit streak, Superintendent John McNamara reminded the audience that 2800 students will walk through the doors on the first day of school with different stories. “All students have learning goals and different levels of confidence,” he said. “We have to find ways to engage and connect.”

Misty eyes filled the auditorium as 2024 seniors shared heartfelt video messages of their most memorable experiences from their teachers. The video brought thunderous applause along with heartfelt gratitude reminding them of the impact made upon their students over the years.

George Couros, International Keynote Speaker for Innovation in Education, won the crowd over before he began his speech sharing that he grew up one of the biggest New York Islander fans bring part applause and a few grumbles. One of the questions he asked the audience was, “How do educators find a pathway to success that’s meaningful to students, and how do we tap into the interests of our kids?” Mr. Couros suggested that stories are the fuel for innovation and that there’s an emotional connection to them.

At the end of the conference, everyone left feeling rejuvenated and ready to make a significant influence through small deeds this school year.