While the official start of school was still a week away, the Copiague School District’s administrators, teachers, and support staff gathered at Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School on the morning of September 2 for the unofficial start of the 2010-2011 school year and the first Superintendent’s Conference Day. After enjoying a breakfast provided by the Food Services Department, the attendees processed into the auditorium for some welcoming remarks.
Board of Education President Laura Gavey, along with First Vice President Doris Fischer, Second Vice President Rosemary Natoli, and Trustee Michael Greb, were on-hand to welcome the new and returning staff. “2010 was a great year for Copiague and I know 2011 will be even better,” said Mrs. Gavey in her opening remarks.
During his speech to the staff, Superintendent of Schools Charles A. Leunig shared the many success and accomplishments of the students and staff that occurred during the 2009-2010 school year, welcomed the newest additions to the Copiague family, and spoke of the challenges that lie ahead. “The needs and challenges of our kids grow every year,” stated Mr. Leunig. “However, we have the talent in this room to get it done. No matter what the state or federal government hands us we will get it done and our students will succeed.”
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Kathleen Bannon’s PowerPoint presentation also touched upon the challenges faced in the coming year by the dramatic changes to cut scores (percent accuracy needed to pass state assessments). “Our number one District goal is student achievement and we will hard to see that happen,” said Dr. Bannon. Added Mr. Leunig, “Eleven years ago the State Education Department challenged us to raise our Regents Diploma rate. We rose to the challenge then and we’ll do it again.”
After the presentation, the staff members returned to their buildings to begin preparing for the first day of school.
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