Berlin Central School District’s teachers, staff and administrators came back together on September 1, for the first of two Superintendent/Staff Orientation days. The BCSD staff gathered in the BMHS auditorium for a welcome from the Administrative Team and to kick off the 2021-2022 school year.
Superintendent Dhara opened by welcoming everyone back. Mr. Dhara also shared what he would like the staff to think about as they navigate this next school year.
“There are three words that I would like to share with you to be our guide as we go through our third year of Covid: Collaboration, Communication and Caring.
“Look out for each other and support each other. If you have a question, ask it, if you have a solution, share it. If you feel someone needs help, reach out to them. And if you need help, reach out to others.”
The two days consisted of new staff introductions, staff recognitions, trainings, workshops, and restorative practices.
“Our teachers are ready for a great year of teaching and learning for all students,” said Berlin Elementary School principal Tracy Kent.
“We will help students to realize all that they are capable of and more. I look forward to a fantastic year!”
Berlin Middle/High School principal Kimberly Brownell, who is starting her first school year at BCSD, shared her goals for the school year after reflecting on the two days of staff development.
“My hope for this year is to meet students and staff where they are at, both academically and socially/emotionally, as well as encourage them to push forward in the midst of challenges we will face together,” said Principal Brownell.
“The BCS community stepped up to ensure our students were taken care of through the whirlwind of the last year and a half. I plan on building upon this positive culture. I am honored to be a Mountaineer and look forward to an amazing year ahead! Happy Trails Mountaineers!””
BES Principal Kent also shared what she is looking forward to seeing this school year.
“I am so excited to have all of our students back at BES. We will continue to build relationships and create a sense of community where all students feel welcomed, safe, and loved.”
Berlin Middle/High School teacher Sandra Honsinger expressed her thoughts and goals for the 2021-2022 school year after the two days as well.
“My hope is we all (faculty, staff, administration, parents, students and community) are a little more patient, a little more understanding, a little more appreciative and we continue to take care of ourselves and each other.”
Superintendent Dhara emphasized how important working together will be in the school year ahead.
“Only by standing together can we get through this year successfully. We have done it so far and I know we can continue doing it.”
Go Mountaineers!
Mountaineers Show Resilience and Pride During Pandemic
BCSD took a moment to reflect on the resilence and fortitude their staff and student Mountaineers showed from the start of the pandemic until the present day with the video below. This video was shared with the BCSD staff on Superintendent’s Day to kick off the 2021-2022 school year.