For the sixth straight year, a unique student-led convocation welcomed back Neenah Joint School District staff members in Pickard Auditorium.
Senior Matt Kemper was the Master of Ceremonies for the annual convocation that featured a rousing welcome from the Neenah High School marching band. The entire staff was clad in red and white, providing an energetic return for the 2015-16 school year.
Kemper shared his story of attending Tullar Elementary School and being picked up in a limousine at school on the day of his adoption. He told of his “grand entrance” to Neenah and challenged staff on how they plan to make a grand entrance into the upcoming school year.
The event also featured 16 door prizes for randomly-selected staff members provided by several Neenah businesses and District business partners. Included in the prizes were an autographed Packer game ball from Super Bowl LXV, Packer tickets, technology items, two Fitbit Zips and numerous gift cards to local businesses. Seven days off were also distributed where one of the District Administrators, including Superintendent Mary Pfeiffer, will sub for a teacher or non-certified staff member. The staff member may choose any day during the school year for the administrative sub.
Pfeiffer and School Board President Scott added remarks as Pfeiffer spoke about establishing a “growth mindset” rather than a “fixed mindset” for student and staff learning. She also celebrated accomplishments related to the District’s Strategic Plan. The new employees introduced themselves in a video and the 2014-15 Employees of the Year and Kohl Fellowship recipients were honored. Each school principal also provided a video “shout-out” on an accomplishment from his or her school during the past year.
A wellness expo with various local organizations and businesses followed in the cafeteria. The remainder of the day was spent in meetings specific to each academic area along with an afternoon of technology training. It was the first of four days of staff professional learning this week. The first day of classes is Tuesday, Sept. 1. |