Welcome Back Faculty

As the summer break draws to a close, the faculty/ staff conference marks the first day faculty members reunite in the school building. This annual gathering is a cherished tradition, a blend of camaraderie, reflection, and preparation for the upcoming school year. The day is filled with singing, sharing meals, learning, and gearing up for the new school year ahead.

The event began with a heartfelt blessing delivered by Dr. Paul Leahman, the Head of School. His words set the tone for the day, as he expressed gratitude and wished the faculty renewed inspiration, purpose, and passion for their roles. He emphasized the importance of creating energized and safe classroom environments and hoped for wisdom and patience in facing challenges.

A Blessing for Faculty

 I give thanks for God’s faithfulness, evident to me by the people in this room.

 As this new school year begins,
May each of you be filled with renewed ideas, purpose, and steady passion.
May your classrooms be energized by student curiosity, and safe spaces welcoming courage, and connection.
May the difficult class period and challenging student you face be met with wisdom, patience, and grace.
May your words inspire, your presence encourage, and your work transform.
May you see the efforts of your planning and lessons bear fruit in the growing of minds and opening hearts.
And may you find many moments of camaraderie, support, accomplishment, and peace along adequate time, strength, compassion, and hope in all you do. Amen.

The day continued with professional development sessions where teachers from kindergarten through 12th grade shared their experiences from the past year. Reflecting on their successes, many faculty members recounted moments of connection and “wins”, such as students shared engaging with literature like “Antigone,” singing songs in Spanish at home, or enjoying diverse guest speakers. The joy of seeing the high school orchestra grow and the excitement of a Virginia Reader’s Choice event were among the highlights shared.

Faculty members also discussed areas for growth, focusing on enhancing skills in information literacy, understanding the impact of technology on learning, and improving their teaching strategies. Some expressed the desire to balance their multiple roles more effectively, while others aimed to adapt to new teaching methodologies that incorporate less technology.

A significant part of the conference was dedicated to discussing what brings life and joy to the educators. Many found fulfillment in watching students experience new cultures, use their language skills, and engage with the world around them. Others cherished the energy and humor students bring into the classroom, the delight of teaching kindergarteners in library because of their delight, and the satisfaction of seeing students grow in confidence and self-advocacy.

As the first day of the conference concluded, there was a shared sense of anticipation and readiness. The faculty left the gathering with renewed enthusiasm and a commitment to making the upcoming school year a success. “Thanks for coming back!” was the closing sentiment, exclaimed by Middle School Principal Erika Gascho.

We are prepared, rested, and ready for another year of guiding young people and feel renewed by our mission and vision. May God richly bless our faculty and staff as they welcome students next week.