HYDE PARK- Hyde Park teachers and staff provided their education expertise during the 10th annual Hudson Valley New Teacher Institute conference on February 24, 2024, at Marist College where they prepared education majors from not only Marist but also Vassar, Bard, Mount St. Mary and SUNY New Paltz on what they need to know when starting in the field.
Over the years, Hyde Park staff have given presentations on curriculum design and instruction, mental health services for students and staff, and classroom design.
Superintendent Dr. Pedro Roman, who was this year’s keynote speaker, was proud to see district staff share their best practices with future educators. Roman’s presentation focused on being a champion for all students and finding their hidden potential.
“With my experience and story, I believe education can change the trajectory of a student’s life; I’m living proof of that,” Roman said. “It’s important for me to make sure that every teacher understands the significant role they play in shaping the life of students.”
It was Ralph R. Smith special education teacher Katherine Pitcher’s first time at the conference and she enjoyed sitting on a panel with fellow teacher Kimberly Lorenz titled “Ask Anything – Elementary!” where it lead to an important dialogue with students.
“The most asked questions were about how to deal with student behaviors in class,” Pitcher said. “We tried to stress to participants that building relationships with students is the key to effective behavior management.”
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Gregory Brown, who has sat on many panels over the years, described the conference as a great way to share information and experience with aspiring teachers.
“Having a chance to meet, share and learn with educators from across the region always leaves me feeling inspired and hopeful for the future,” Brown said.
