
A year ago, Mr. Culbertson left the classroom for retirement. He had taught for 30 years (side-by-side with me for 25). Next year, Mrs. Mouton has opted to remain in the district's virtual teaching program, and Mrs. Stagner is moving into a literacy specialist position within the school. With the need for four teachers in the fourth grade, that means we had to find three qualified candidates to round out our fourth grade team.
It's a lot more complicated than changing a tire. We needed competent people who can learn quickly and adapt to their new situations. We needed the best new teachers for our students. We needed people who could work with their team members and add to the culture of Cecil Floyd.
A year ago, we hired Miss Graham. As a new teacher, Graham has been an excellent choice. She is conscious of teaching standards as well as techniques to deal with behaviors.
Last week, Miss Graham and I joined the principal and assistant principal to meet and interview potential new fourth grade teachers. I will abstain from introducing them yet, but I think the two ladies who met our requirements will help effectively fill out our team. We are hopeful concerning the direction that two more first-year teachers offer us. It's going to be whole new world in Cecil Floyd's fourth grade, and I am excited about the possibilities we may find ourselves headed!