A structured 3-hour workshop to welcome new teachers, introduce school culture, and set them up for a strong first year.
Welcome & Introductions
Set the tone with a warm welcome. Share your own 'why' story. Have participants introduce themselves with a simple protocol.
Two Truths & a Lie
Great low-stakes icebreaker. Give participants 2 minutes to write their truths and lie, then share in small groups before whole-group debrief.
School Culture & Vision Deep Dive
Walk through the school's mission, values, and non-negotiables. Use slides, stories, and data points. Leave room for Q&A.
Curriculum Framework Exploration
Break into grade-level groups. Each group explores their curriculum maps and documents 3 big understandings. Groups share out.
Break
Encourage participants to connect with each other informally.
Classroom Management Strategies Gallery Walk
Post 8-10 strategies around the room. Participants use sticky notes to respond, add examples, and ask questions.
Q&A & Myth Busters Panel
Invite veteran teachers to sit on a panel. New teachers submit questions anonymously. Facilitator reads and panel responds.
Reflection & Commitment Cards
Each participant writes one commitment for their first month. Collect cards and return them at the 30-day check-in.
Next Steps & Resources
Share the new teacher resource folder, key contacts, and calendar of upcoming PD. End with an affirming send-off.