First-year teachers and those new to Virginia Beach City Public Schools were welcomed by Superintendent Dr. Donald Robertson Jr. Aug. 12, the first day of new educator orientation for the 2024-25 school year.
“We operate as a team,” he said. “Team Virginia Beach City Public Schools!”
The teachers visited their schools in the morning and then travelled to Bayside High School for lunch and professional learning sessions. Bayside’s cheerleaders greeted them as they arrived.
The three-day event was organized by the school system’s Office of Professional Growth and Innovation. Coordinator Kelly Zimba said the goal is to
make sure the teachers “feel totally equipped to kick off the new year.”
More than 350 gathered in the auditorium before dividing up into school groups.
School Board Chair Kimberly Melnyk greeted the teachers.
Dr. Robertson introduced them to VBCPS’ mission, vision and strategic plan — “Compass to 2025.” He spoke about some of his experiences as a teacher and stressed the importance of learning from mentors, teamwork, having classroom expectations and engaging parents in their children’s education.
“Teaching is a phenomenal profession,” he told them. “If you want to change the world; be a teacher.”
For more information about a rewarding career as a teacher VBCPS, visit https://www.vbschools.com/careers.
