The annual New Teacher Orientation Day has become a tradition that brings together Benton’s teacher leaders and new staff to launch the school year with collaboration, learning, and connection. The day began at the Central Office, where new teachers received orientation information before joining the teacher leaders in the afternoon. Meanwhile, the teacher leaders joined together to review the data team cycle and participated in engaging breakout sessions on leadership facilitated by Benton instructional coaches, administrators and a data team support leader. The morning provided valuable insights and learning opportunities for both new teachers and teacher leaders to support staff in their data teams.
In the afternoon, teacher leaders and new staff gathered at Tara Hills for a shared lunch, building relationships in a welcoming and relaxed setting. The group then toured the district, gaining a deeper understanding of the communities’ students come from and visiting each school building. This tradition not only helps new teachers become familiar with Benton’s schools but also fosters meaningful connections between teacher leaders and their new colleagues. The day was filled with learning, relationship-building, and a shared sense of excitement for the year ahead.