On Wednesday, August 3rd, Walton County kicked off the 2022-2023 school year by hosting a district-wide event for teachers at Freeport High School. The day started with a welcome and celebration of last year’s success by Superintendent of Schools, A. Russell Hughes.
Superintendent Hughes could hardly wait to share with teachers that the students of Walton County rank #3 in the state according to both proficiency across all state tested areas and school grade status. He also congratulated teachers as the Walton County School District achieved an “A” rating, for the fourth consecutive year. In addition to the district rating, all Walton County Schools achieved either an “A” or “B” status out of the “A-F” rating scale. This is a first-time feat for the Walton County School District. This portion of the program was filled with celebration, applause, and many pats on the back. The Superintendent continued his welcome by introducing his yearly theme, “Get On, Go On”, and reminded all teachers about The Walton Way, which is EPIC – Excellence, Professionalism, Innovation, and Collaboration.
Superintendent Hughes ended by stating just how close the District is to achieving the vision of becoming the number one school district in the state of Florida.
The mid-morning session spotlighted a world-renowned keynote speaker, Ms. Kim Bearden, the co-founder of The Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Georgia. As an award-winning educator, Ms. Bearden has been inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame, selected as a Disney American Outstanding Teacher of the Year, and honored with the Milken Family Foundation’s Award for Excellence in Education. Ms. Bearden’s message to teachers was one of hope about the difference they are making daily. While many teachers are leaving the profession, she praised Walton County’s teachers and pushed them to continue with a vision and mission of helping and educating all children. She discussed a positive mindset, going the extra mile, and truly listening to families and students. Teachers were thrilled to see a mentor in education face-to-face, and all teachers were gifted with one of Ms. Bearden’s three books, Crash Course.
The remainder of the day focused on teachers learning from teachers. The day, set up much like a conference, provided time for teachers to hear from speakers who provided best practices within their grade group or subject area, as well as choice sessions on a wide variety of topics that were exciting to all. There were also guest presenters, such as an area attorney who provided best practices to coaches and Florida Department of Education representatives.
The day provided a great way to unify the district towards the vision for the 2022-2023 school year. Those in attendance even described it as, “powerful”, and “full of so much Joy ”, “impactful”, “truly EPIC”, “contagious”, and “the best beginning.”
You can get a special behind-the-scenes look into this incredible event by visiting www.youtu.be/xHXVqkQmV9Y.
For more information on the Walton County School District, please visit www.walton.k12.fl.us.
Author: SWal Life
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