The fourth-grade dual language students at Archer Street School performed at the Coral House in Baldwin on Oct. 11 to kick off the annual Long Island Toys for Tots Drive. Under the direction of music teacher Mrs. Jennifer Skelly, students performed a rendition of K’Naan’s “Wavin’ Flag.” This was the third time the Archer Street dual language students were invited to perform.

While students in Mrs. Cunnane’s sixth-grade ENL class are learning a new language in a new cultural environment, they are also doing the same with technology. The mission is to teach students that what doesn’t challenges us, doesn’t change us. Students witnessed this example through Mrs. Cunnane’s display of vulnerability, where she shared her fear of new challenges with the class, but modeled willingness to take it on, to lead the students in their quest to master a new language.

During a lesson for their current Rules to Live By module, students partnered up or chose to work alone on viewing TED-Ed talks on their Chromebooks. The TED talks were pre-selected and assigned in their Google classroom. The assignment required students to watch the TED talks, analyze the message and then share their analysis with the class, along with their interpretation of what the "Rules to Live By" were from the video.

Mrs. Cunnane said the purpose “is to end the module unit with the students creating their own TED talk video based on the Rules to Live By that we have discussed in class.”

On what turned out to be a beautiful day for celebration and football, students, staff, Board of Education members, administrators and community members flocked to the high school for the annual homecoming celebration. 

The festivities kicked off with a parade that featured the flag team, marching band and the JROTC. The parade was anchored by the homecoming court, which was led by senior king and queen, Thornton Brown and Mia Almonte.

While visitors enjoyed games, vendors and some delicious food in the school’s parking lot, the Red Devils were clicking on all cylinders on the field, as they cruised to a 40-0 victory against the East Meadow High School Jets. Jayvian Allen opened the scoring with a 6-yard touchdown run, and Terrance Edmond followed with a 3-yard scoring scamper. From there on, it was smooth sailing for Freeport. One big highlight was a Gerald Smikle fumble recovery, which he returned 37 yards for a touchdown. Makhai Jinks put forth a strong effort on defense, leading the Red Devils with nine tackles.

This particular day was about much more than just football. It was also a day to honor  the senior football players, cheerleaders and band members for their commitment to Freeport. As each senior’s name was announced to the crowd, they were greeted with a rousing ovation from the jam-packed bleachers. Freeport pride was certainly on display for what turned out to be the perfect day.

The district was honored to welcome Dr. Rainer Weiss, winner of the 2017 Nobel Prize in physics and professor at MIT, to the high school, where he presented his discovery of gravitational waves to students, faculty and invited guests, and interacted with students throughout the day. 

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham said that he was thrilled and honored to have Dr. Weiss at the high school, and called the day historic for Freeport schools. “The purpose was to have somebody of that stature, a Nobel Prize winner, being able to inspire our students to be the future scientists and the future leaders of the world.”

During this memorable and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students, Dr. Weiss witnessed students mimic his black hole experiment and student research presentations. Dr. Weiss said he was impressed with the science program at Freeport schools after listening to the active science curriculum and the opportunities the district offers students.

“To hear somebody of that stature observe the work we are doing here and describe it as extraordinary, amazing and rare is gratifying,” Dr. Kishore Kuncham said. “We are providing world-class opportunities and partnerships for our students to better themselves, to shine and to be motivated.”

Dr. Weiss also engaged students and staff one-on-one in intriguing conversations about science and took a tour of the high school science research lab. “Getting to meet a Nobel Laureate is an experience of a lifetime and a great moment for Freeport students and the Freeport School District,” Vincent Pereira, director of science, said. “Dr. Weiss showed our students the wonders of doing science and the qualities to keep persevering until you reach your goal.” 

To show their appreciation for his time at the high school, the Freeport administration and staff presented Dr. Weiss with a gift basket toward the end of the day.

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The district is proud to announce the selection of several extremely talented student-musicians to perform as All-State Choral participants in the New York State School Music Association All-State Festival in Rochester, from Nov. 29 to Dec. 2. The eight students were selected for this prestigious honor based upon a rigorous audition process under the direction of Select Chorale Director Monique Retzlaff. The district congratulates the following students:

Gabriel Alvarado (Vice President of Select Chorale)
Abigail Brown (Select Chorale)
Hailey Brown (Treasurer of Select Chorale) 
Trevon Campbell (Select Chorale)
Leah Hochman (President of Select Chorale) 
Mayralee Martinez (Librarian of Select Chorale) 
Alia Nunge (Select Chorale)
Sincere Williams (Select Chorale)

Bayview Avenue School hosted the “Deeper Learning: The Neuroscience of Learning Math” symposium on Oct. 3, where Nigel Nisbet, vice president of content creation at MIND Research Institute, spoke to Long Island teachers and district administrators on techniques to engage students and enhance the learning experience in mathematics.

Anthony Murray, director of math and technology, introduced Nisbet to the crowd and thanked the Freeport administration and Bayview school for hosting the amazing opportunity. 

“I think mathematics is one of the greatest intellectual achievements of human kind,” Murray said. “We are all in a position where we can influence, encourage, promote and redesign learning experiences for our students. This enables us to produce future-ready students.”

Nisbet engaged the crowd with various exercises that included ST Math’s “Jiji The Penguin.” With these exercises, teachers and administrators experienced a visually creative instructional program that builds a deep conceptual understanding of math. 

New Visions School was named this year’s champion for the Freeport Memorial Library's Annual Summer Reading Challenge contest. Each summer, the four elementary schools in the District compete for the most books read over the summertime, where students visit the Freeport library during the summer months and report to the librarians about books that they have read. This year, New Visions students read and reported on the most books out of all of the elementary schools. 

Third-grader Sabrina Turcios, first-grader Cassandra Turcios, and fourth-grader Jennah Newton tied as the three top readers, reading 86 books each. The three students were awarded crowns and named “The Reading Royalty of New Visions.” In addition, New Visions School also received a trophy. The trophy will be placed in the New Visions library and the top readers will have their photo on the wall of fame in the school’s library as well. 

The high school’s Performing Arts Center was filled with peace and harmony for the district’s 10th annual Peace Concert & Art Exhibit, which honored International Day of Non-Violence and International Day of Peace. All eight schools were represented, as students entertained the audience with their own arrangements that highlighted world peace. 

As guests arrived for an evening of inspirational performances, they had an opportunity to view an impressive student art exhibit that reflected peace and historical leaders who promoted peace.

Board of Education President Michael Pomerico spoke on behalf of the Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham. Pomerico said that International Day of Non-Violence commemorates the launch of the celebration of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birthday worldwide. “I’m grateful for those great spirits who led the world to peaceful resolutions: Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, Harriet Tubman, Dalai Lama and Mahatma Gandhi. They dedicated their lives to a cause greater than themselves and inspired others to join them.”

“This is a mission that we have embraced at Freeport Public Schools,” Pomerico continued. “We are raising our children to be peace pilgrims by teaching them mindfulness through the district. Our children are the future, who will inspire others to find inner peace that will lead to world peace.” 

“When we gather here, we fill our hearts with melodies and messages of peace through the children of all eight schools,” said Ruth Breidenbach, director of arts and community relations, as she welcomed parents and community members to the concert and introduced each school.

The sounds of applause filled the Performing Arts Center, as each school took center stage to share their musical talents. When the final performance ended, the atmosphere was one of peace and hope for the future. Dr. Kishore Kuncham, Superintendent of Schools, has long been a guiding force for the annual peace initiatives that have taken place in the district for 10 years. The celebrations of peace in Freeport Public Schools have become well-known and supported throughout the community. Given the turmoil and stresses present in our current world, it is vital to maintain peace within ourselves in order to bring a sense of peace to the world around us. 

The streets in Freeport were flowing with the color yellow on Sept. 29, as district Board of Education members, administration, staff, students and community members wore yellow T-shirts, symbolizing peace and hope, during its annual 5K Peace Walk to celebrate International Day of Peace.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham opened the event by highlighting the significance of world peace and tolerance. He also introduced those in attendance, including members of the Board of Education, Freeport Village officials, and local and state elected officials. 

To kick off this annual event, a peace pole was unveiled in front of Archer Street School. “As many of you know, the peace pole project is an international movement,” Dr. Kuncham said. “You can see similar peace poles throughout the world. In 180 countries, peace makers, and peace leaders have taken part in the peace pole projects, including the Dalai Lama, Mother Teresa, former President Jimmy Carter and so many others. We are joining that group today by dedicating the peace pole before we begin our peace walk.”

Archer school Principal Paula Lein said the peace pole will help keep the meaning of peace at the forefront, and keep peace in the schools, in the community and worldwide. 

“Now more than ever, we need to appreciate and respect each other and find ways to make our lives harmonious and joyful,” Lein said. “Let’s all strive for world peace, and that begins right here and right now.”

Archer chorus students entertained the crowd by performing K’Naan’s “Wavin’ Flag.” Students waved flags from different countries during the performance to symbolize world peace.

The well-attended 5K walk started and ended at Archer school. The purpose of the walk is to celebrate peace and spread harmony throughout the Freeport community. 

More information to come.

The district was honored to be presented with a $125,000 check from New York State Sen. John Brooks at its Sept. 26 Board of Education meeting.

“Senator Brooks has become a great and true friend of Freeport schools and our community. He has become an ambassador and an advocate for public education. These funds will be used for school programs and services,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham. “We thank Senator Brooks for being a champion for public education at Freeport Public Schools.”

Senator Brooks noted that the contribution is a recognition of all the accomplishments within the district. “I’ve had a chance to be here many times to see your great programs and the accomplishments of the students. This money will help along the way,” he said. “You’re a district that faces challenges, but you meet them well. This school district does an absolutely excellent job, and I’m really happy that we’re able to do this.”

Board of Education President Michael Pomerico spoke on behalf of the Board and thanked Senator Brooks for his generous contribution. “We always speak about advocacy and Senator Brooks is always willing to meet with us, whether it be here in our buildings or at his office in Albany,” Pomerico said. “He always has an open door for us, he fights for us, he understands our challenges and our needs, and we appreciate all you do for Freeport Public Schools.”

The district honored the efforts of Freeport alumni and former NFL New York Jet and Tampa Bay Buccaneer Jerry Mackey by naming him Freeport’s Unsung Hero at the Sept. 26 Board of Education meeting.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham recognized Mackey as someone very special to the students, community and Freeport schools.

“Jerry has devoted his time and energy as a volunteer with our football team for over 10 years. If that is not enough, Jerry has served as a mentor, motivator and inspirational teacher, who has guided and influenced our student athletes to be the best they can be,” Dr. Kuncham said. “Jerry is genuinely passionate about the work that he does here, and we thank him for his contributions to our students and our families.”

At the meeting, Mackey received a plaque from the district and a proclamation from New York State Sen. John Brooks. Mackey said he was honored to receive the acknowledgements from the district and the state.

“This town, this program and my family and friends that I grew up with in Freeport mean a lot to me. Freeport is in my blood and I have an undying loyalty to my program,” Mackey said. “I have a passion for the community and giving back, and making sure that these kids enjoy their time here because it was very special to me.”

Students of Mr. Anthony Aniano’s and Ms. Kristina Ridini’s seventh grade math class at J.W. Dodd Middle School began sharpening their technological skills by utilizing and exploring their new personal Chromebooks. The Chromebooks were given out to seventh grade students in early September as part of the third and final phase of the district’s Smart Schools Bond Act.

The math students are now logged into and are using the Glencoe Math Workbook Series online. With this, they were taught how to open the application, find a specific page, enlarge or reduce the text, and more. Students were assigned homework from the online textbook in an effort to help them practice using these new skills. Each student was also given a stylus and was shown how to complete and save their work directly on the Chromebook.

At Caroline G. Atkinson School, Ms. Schwarz’s sixth grade ELA class was recently taught how to use Google Classroom for the first time. Ms. Schwarz’s enthusiasm was contagious as she guided the students while teaching them how to sign into the class and navigate through assignments prepared especially for them. Following the tutorial, students were asked to read a document and/or study a video that led them through the process of creating a “hook” for their upcoming Writer’s Workshop Narrative. After completing the research, students were engaged and excited to post their responses.

Fifty-two past and present students from the high school earned the designation of Advanced Placement Scholars for excelling on the 2018 AP exams. This number has increased throughout the years, with 48 students earning the designation last year. Graduated seniors Javier Lechuga, Franco Ramirez and Zoe Stetson earned the National AP Scholar designation, which is the highest designation one can achieve.

With three students named National AP Scholars, 18 students were named AP Scholars with Distinction, five students were named AP Scholars with Honor and 26 were designated as AP Scholars, including junior Tamia Cerrate. 

Advanced Placement courses are open to high school students who have demonstrated the required academic skills and are recommended by their teachers to take AP courses. While taking these courses, students must maintain an average of 85 percent or better to remain at the AP level. This allows students to earn college credits during their high school career, advanced placement or both for successful performance on the AP exams. As college admissions become more competitive and tuitions more costly, participation in AP courses has become an increasingly important component for acceptance to the top colleges and universities. Successful completion of AP courses is also considered a good indicator of future success by most colleges.

The district congratulates the following students on achieving this honor:

National AP Scholar
Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more exams.
Javier Lechuga,* Franco Ramirez* and Zoe Stetson*

AP Scholars with Distinction
Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more exams.
Daisy Abello-Reyes, Nina Banks,* Dehandra Blackwood, Kira Brizill,* Hannah Cotter,* Alexander Dasque,* Nicholai Dasque,* Michael Desir,* Joseph Frye,* Leah Hochman, Jocelyn Jovel,* Joseph LaRocca,* Javier Lechuga,* Michelle Luongo,* Kenny Martinez,* Franco Ramirez,* Zoe Stetson* and Jack Zhang.*

AP Scholars with Honor
Granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams.
Saif Ali, Ethan Burrell, Christopher Merino,* Erick Rivera* and Magnolia Robinson.*

AP Scholars
Granted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams.
Jocelin Aguilera,* Cesar Andreu,* Audrey Arias,* Hailey Brown, Kevin Brown,* Maya Brown,* Myles Carter,* Tamia Cerrate (junior), Chad Elder,* Papa-Sam Essuman,* Anthony Ezeji,* James Hastings,* Ashley Hernandez,* Kaytline Hernandez, Misael Marquez,* Jessica Moreo,* Peter Muzac,* Jason Peralta,* Susan Perez-Pinales,* Clara Petta-Gonzalez, Selah Rose, Gerard Smikle , Jordyn Smith,* Nia Tomlinson,* Miranda Urena* and Valentina Vinasco.

*Class of 2018

It was a packed house at Atkinson on Sept. 13, as parents took their next giant leap for their children’s intermediate level journey at the school’s Back to School Night. The evening began with the Atkinson PTA and Grupo de Padres Meeting in the cafeteria, while the Dollars for Scholars spent the night in friendly conversation with parents and sold t-shirts.

Everyone gathered in the auditorium to hear an overview of courses and expectations, which was led by the building principal, Mrs. Connie Velez. We were elated to have been joined by members of the Board of Education, including President Michael Pomerico and Vice President Anthony J. Miller, as well as our Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham. Teams of teachers were introduced and applauded before heading to their classrooms to host the parents. This night set the tone for success and a year that will be out of this world.

Students at the Caroline G. Atkinson Intermediate School commemorated the heroes involved in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on Sept. 7. Social studies teacher Mrs. Ferrarelli shared and implemented a lesson that stressed the effects of giving 100 percent.

The class worked in groups to present tableaus that modeled what giving 100 percent looks like and were provided with various interpretations. One group worked together to form the number 100, where one student said to another group member, “I am trying my best.”  

With this activity, students analyzed the concept of how a person’s actions can affect others, paralleling the connections that were made between those who gave their all in the midst of the horrors experienced on 9/11. 

New Visions Elementary School’s K-4 grade classes gathered around the school’s peace pole on Sept. 7 for the its annual “Heroes Day,” which commemorates those who lost their lives 17 years ago on Sept. 11, 2001.

Attending the ceremony were New Visions staff, members of the Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham, and members of the Freeport police and fire departments.

New Visions Principal Connie Malcolm-Grant began the ceremony by thanking members of the police and fire departments for their extraordinary bravery that day. 

“We stand here in unity wearing red, white and blue, the colors of our flag, to celebrate our country, where we can promote peace by respecting each other regardless of the color of our skin, gender and regardless of our beliefs,” Malcolm-Grant said. “We can never repay you for the sacrifices that you make every day, but we surely can honor you by being good citizens, who love ourselves, who love others and love our country.”

Fourth-grade dual-language student Jennah Newton took to the podium to read her “A Heroes” poem to her fellow classmates and community members.  

Miguel Bermudez, chief of police for the Freeport Police Department, and Julius Ellison, chief of the Freeport Fire Department, also addressed the crowd of young faces, urging students to never forget those who passed away on that day, and stressed the importance to listen to their parents and teachers.   

Dr. Kuncham also took a moment to thank members of the Freeport police and fire departments. “Many of them were there 17 years ago when it happened. They were involved directly in rescue operations, saving lives and they continue to do that, so we thank our heroes for what they do every day.”

In addition to his speech, Dr. Kuncham told students to always keep love and kindness at the forefront. 

“Treat everyone the way you want to be treated, make sure you don’t tolerate anything that’s not right happening around you, be friends with everyone, understand each other and spread that within you and among the rest of all of us,” Dr. Kuncham said. “May peace be in our schools, in our community, in our country, in the world, and in the universe.”

It was an exciting afternoon in the district on Sept. 6, as students from Bayview Avenue School and Leo F. Giblyn Elementary School lined up to carry boxes filled with donated school supplies into their respective buildings.

The packed boxes are part of United Way of Long Island’s Stuff-A-Bus campaign, which helps supply local students with new backpacks and other school essentials, donated by members of the community. The Long Island Nets also partnered with the organization this year and had its mascot “Dale the Eagle” greet students and help them unload boxes from the bus. 

Bayview’s Priscilla Varela and Celine Levine’s fourth-grade classes, and Giblyn’s Kelly Nicholson and Samantha Schnitzer’s fourth-grade classes participated in unloading the bus, carrying 100 boxes of supplies. Both schools received 50 boxes that contained a variety of school supplies, including notebooks, pens, pencils, markers, crayons, scissors, erasers and backpacks. 

“Every student deserves the opportunity to be successful in school. By being part of the Stuff-A-Bus program, we are able to ensure that our students start their school year with a full desk ready to learn,” Dr. Kishore Kuncham, Superintendent of Schools, said. “It’s clear that United Way of Long Island and the Long Island Nets understand the importance of education, and our students and staff are extremely grateful for their ongoing support.”

Theresa A. Regnante, president and CEO of United Way of Long Island, said “This is the 10th year the Stuff-A-Bus program has provided students with the tools they need to feel confident in their studies. Now when the students in the Freeport School District sit down for class, they can feel secure knowing that their desks are full and they are prepared to learn.”

The Performing Arts Center at the high school was filled with enthusiasm on Aug. 29, as district staff took their seats for the annual superintendent’s conference day to prepare for the 2018-2019 school year.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham welcomed staff from each building and introduced members of the Board of Education, administration and staff. 

In his speech, Board of Education President Michael Pomerico commemorated staff on their efforts in previous school years.

“The Board of Education thanks you for your tireless efforts, your dedication and your commitment,” Pomerico said. “The Board of Education knows that everyone is doing whatever it takes for our students to succeed and we know you will continue to do that. On behalf of the board, have a very successful year and thank you for all you do.”

Dr. Kuncham spoke of the district’s achievements and accomplishments and highlighted the goals for the upcoming school year. These include health and wellness, safety, rigorous academic initiatives, technology initiatives and advocating for students. He added that the mission is to educate and inspire students, and to continue with optimism, faith, trust, direction and enthusiasm. 

Dr. Kuncham stated that the district was set to take another giant leap. “We have the capacity, the potential, we have the resources, we have the hearts, we just need to dare to blast off!” During his speech, he referred to teachers as “explorers” and students as “rockets.”

“Our students are rockets who have the potential to achieve great heights and each needs the fuel to fly. It is up to you to fuel them with education, care and compassion so that they can fly as high as they want. Take them to the next level of their lives. Obstacles are always changing, but so are we. You all have been prepped for this year’s giant leap into the known and unknown. Let’s see what’s out there and what’s inside each one of us,” Dr. Kuncham continued. “I’m completely confident in your abilities to achieve the mission. I’m incredibly proud of you and I would not want to go on this mission with anyone else.”

Students and members of the Summer Academy of the Arts dazzled the teachers and staff with an exciting and inspirational musical and dance performance, which reflected the next giant leap theme of the school year to honor the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.  

Following the conference and energetic student performances, teachers reported to their respective schools to continue preparation for the upcoming school year.

The district was bustling on Sept. 4, as staff, administration, and students entered their respective schools to kick off the 2018-2019 school year. 

Freeport High School students started the morning bright and early and were greeted by Principal Joseph Mille as they entered the building. Students also reconnected with teachers and friends before heading to their homerooms to start the big day.

Mille said the mission is to prepare Freeport students to be college and career ready. He add, “Our goal is to continue to improve student performance in all areas, address students’ social and emotional needs on a more comprehensive level and continue to increase rigor inside the classroom using the latest technology.”

At Columbus Avenue School and Archer Street School parents lined up with their children to see them off on their first day. Meanwhile, staff members were greeted with smiling faces and hugs as they helped escort students off the buses. All students were equipped with backpacks, bags of school supplies and stuffed lunch boxes.

Students at Archer were also given special bookmarks as they entered the building. Each bookmark, which reflected the district’s space theme for the 2018-2019 school year, displayed pictures of rocket ships and the words “Shoot for the Stars!” or “Blast off Into the World of Reading!” Archer Street School Principal Paula Lein said the mission is to motivate students to become “Archer Rocket Readers.” 

The district was pleased to welcome the incoming freshman class and their parents to Freeport High School on Aug. 23 for the district’s annual freshman orientation.

The Class of 2022 and their parents were invited to enjoy breakfast in the school cafeteria before heading to the performing arts center for the forum. Freeport High School Principal Joseph Mille introduced members of the Board of Education, administration and staff during the event, and formally welcomed the fresh new faces to the high school family.

“As a high school community, we have experiences, bonds and relationships that last a lifetime. For our incoming freshmen, that’s what is in store for you,” Mille continued. “This place is a home. You are my family and I will take care of you for the four years that you are here and every year after. You have wonderful opportunities here and I couldn’t be happier that you are now with us at the high school.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham asked the new students if they are ready for the exciting challenge as Freeport High Schoolers.

“If you don’t know already, you have stepped into a world of opportunities. This place is your place, our place, a magical place, where anything and everything that you want to be can happen. We have so many clubs, sports activities and science research opportunities. Please take advantage of it,” Dr. Kuncham continued. “If there’s anything holding you back at this point in time, unleash it. You have tremendous potential to become a leader and be everything that you can be. We are here to prepare you for life, college and career. Everyone in the high school and in this district, cares for you and is here for you. If you need help, don’t hesitate to come to us…and let’s take the next giant leap as we begin the 2018-2019 year.”

Following the introductions, students were grouped and taken on a tour of the building, while administration spoke with parents about the many innovative and rewarding programs the school and the district offers.

After the student tour, led by members of the Peer Leadership Program, the ninth-grade students then assembled into classrooms for group discussions. Peer Leadership Program members also shared their experiences at the high school and informed freshmen on the extracurricular activities the school offers.

Their journey as high schoolers will begin on Sept. 4. 

The Caroline G. Atkinson Intermediate School cafeteria was filled with new faces on Aug. 20, as the district hosted its annual First Year Teachers’ Orientation. Prior to the start of the multi-day orientation, teachers were distributed Chromebooks for the school year.

The program opened with Dr. Mary Bediako, Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and Special Projects, introducing each new staff member to the board of education and administration. 

Board of Education President Michael Pomerico emphasized the significance of being a Freeporter. 

“This is a career for you. We want you to succeed, and we want our kids to succeed,” Pomerico said. “Freeport is a wonderful school district and a lot of tremendous things happen here whether it’s in education, music and art, or sports.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham encouraged teachers to think about their next giant leap.

“You’ll improve on your craft, and you’ll all become master teachers. How you differentiate and how you reach out to each and every student, that’s going to be the key to your success, the success of the children and the success of the school district,” Dr. Kuncham said. “We want you to be here to inspire our students every single day. We want our students to be the problem solvers and the innovators, and all of that can happen through you. You are the leaders, and you are the superheroes. Bring your passion every single day, make a difference, be real, be genuine. We are here for all of you to succeed and we are here to take you on this exciting journey with all of us. Let’s take the next giant leap.”

Following the inspiring program, Dr. Bediako led the teachers in a pledge, where they vowed to develop a safe and positive classroom environment for all students.  The teachers went on a bus tour of the district’s eight buildings and historical sites. For the remainder of the day and in the days that followed, first-year and second-year teachers participated in the district’s targeted professional development program.

The district kicks off its first day of school on Sept. 4.