The Islip School District’s administrators and teachers enjoyed a productive day of learning during Superintendent’s Conference Day on Nov. 8, participating in numerous activities that provided opportunity for professional development and growth.
The morning kicked off in the high school auditorium with a welcome from Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Michael Giacchetto, accompanied by student Parker Jackson. The assembled staff were entertained by exciting performances by the Islip Middle School cheerleading team and – memorably joined by an acrobatic Superintendent Dr. Dennis P. O’Hara – Islip High School’s varsity kickline, while Director of Fine and Performing Arts Michael Hershkowitz led the audience in a “cats and boots” vocal exercise demonstrating the value of trust and teamwork.
Training sessions held at both the high school and middle school included topics ranging from an introduction to the physical and mental benefits of yoga, led by Dr. O’Hara with the assistance of Angela Polchinski; a session focused on running and athletic recovery, led by teacher David Claps; and workshops geared toward enhancing teachers’ use of instructional technology such as Fundations, Nearpod, Google and iPads, led by teachers Ashley Bloch, Tim Brush, Thomas Johnston, Michel Herzog, Joe Sabbatino, Maria Scammell, Fred Stroh, Frank Vaughn and Blaine Weisman.
After lunch, guest inspirational speaker John Perricone addressed the teachers and staff in the high school auditorium. Perricone, a teacher and author of “Zen and the Art of Public School Teaching,” provided insights, guidance and philosophy meant to help educators reconnect with their passion for teaching.
“Superintendent’s Conference Day was a special one for our district,” Dr. O’Hara said. “Teachers, students, administrators and some individuals from outside the district pooled their knowledge, expertise and passion to create a day filled with positive energy, learning and an affirmation of our work that was sorely needed. We are capable of accomplishing great things if we work together, support one another, feel safe leaving our comfort zones, attend to our mental and emotional health, remain grateful, and have a strong belief in our ability to make a difference in the lives of our students.”
Date Added: 11/28/2022