First Ever New Teacher Academy Goes Out with a Bang- and a Banquet!

After three days of learning, thinking, talking, considering, contemplating, evaluating and reflecting (among other things), Thursday was a day for celebration.

Hey Teachers! First a picture, and then we'll eat!

Huntsville ISD's first ever New Teacher Academy ended with a bang, and a banquet!

The one hundred fifteen (or thereabouts) new-to-our district teachers range from "brand spanking new" to "experienced seasoned veteran," and they all came together at Magnolia Lake for a celebration and congratulation lunch in honor of...them!

Sonny Cruse

Interim Superintendent Sonny Cruse shared a few funny and touching moments from his many years as teacher (coach, principal and superintendent) during his remarks.  He urged the incoming teachers that they (all of us!)) all need to work together to teach and serve our children.  As he aptly put, "If it's going to be, it's up to--WE!"

Huntsville Elementary School Principal Koren Nicks (center in teal)
with her new elementary teachers!  HES, represent!

 As part of the capstone experience, each teacher created their Teacher Vision and Mission Statement.  

Brandi Ramdohr's Vision & Mission centered around a critical time in her life,
the epiphany she experienced and the teachers that made a profound difference.

Amy Mayer , Director of Staff Development & District Initiatives congratulates new
Huntsville ISD teachers on their hard work throughout the week.

Marjetta Spriggs our Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction,
steps in to help keep the ice tea coming for our teachers!

Carol Smith of the Chamber of Commerce (left)
gives a personal welcome! 

Carol Smith, from the Walker County Chamber of Commerce, came bearing gifts in the form of lots and lots of "goodie" bags.    We'd like to thank Carol and the Chamber for coming and giving a gracious welcome from the City and Walker County, as wellA BIG special thanks to the Walker County Chamber of Commerce and the following businesses for contributing:

Wally’s Party Factory, Devine Life Change, Giddy Up Glamor, Pita Pit, SAAFE House,
Curves, Edward Jones Investment- Randall Mangum,  The Huntsville Item, Inspirational Graphic Designs, Rollo Insurance, Iron Works Health Club, Snap Fitness Huntsville, State Farm Insurance Diana K. Barnes, Young Living Essential Oils, On Pointe Dance Company, Sam Houston Statue Visitor Center, Sam Houston Memorial Museum, BBVA Compass, Domino’s Pizza, Mitcham Industries, Casey R. Frazier, D.D.S., First National, Bank of Huntsville, Maurices 1729, Precision Printing, Southwestern Consolidated Directory Co. and Community Service Credit Union.

Jackie Dawson, one of our mentor teachers, listens to Sonny Cruse.

Matthew Lahey  Huntsville ISD Huntsville Independent School District