Published: August 05, 2008 11:50 pm            

County teachers, administrators ready for a new school year

While Lauderdale County School students have been gearing up for Thursday's first day of classes for the new school year, so have the district's teachers and administrators.

In recent weeks, several events have taken place in preparation for the year, including a principal's retreat and most recently, a teachers convocation.

"This is part of our staff development," said Superintendent Randy Hodges, who will mark his first school opening in Lauderdale County since his new term began in January.

"I'm both humbled and excited to begin another school year in this district," Hodges said.

More than 500 district teachers gathered at the Meridian MSU Kahlmus Auditorium Monday to launch the new school year. "Focusing on Quality Instruction in Every Classroom—All Day, Every Day" was the theme and, according to Clara Godine, professional development director for Lauderdale County School District, the purpose of the convocation was to "encourage, inspire, support, challenge and inform the teachers and administrators as they begin another school year,"

John Johnson, news director for WTOK-TV, was keynote speaker for the session, which is one in a series of a four-day professional programs for the district. Other professional development activities occur year round in the Lauderdale County School District, Godine said.

Other activities teachers and administrators scheduled in preparation of the new school year included: a principals’ retreat at the Hilton Garden Inn. Dr. David E. Lee of the University of Southern Mississippi was keynote speaker and the theme was "What Every Principal Should Know."

Also, a new teachers’ orientation was held for more than 25 new teachers. Since the convocation, site-based activities have been held throughout the district.

Hodges said the district is increasing its focus on the instructional and academic needs of its students.

"We need to be focused on something for every child," Hodges said. "That is, making sure that we have a broad curriculum that meets the needs of all children in the areas of college prep and vocational. And to make school exciting and rewarding, we want to focus on the arts in a big way. In doing that, we think we can meet the needs of all children."

        

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