St. Joseph School District holds a New Teacher’s Institute Mon, Aug. 4 – Thurs, Aug. 7, to welcome and prepare first-year teachers and teachers that are new to the District. There are approximately 100 new teachers this year, which is fairly typical.

“The Institute gives us an opportunity to bring new teachers up to speed with current practices in the District,” said Brian Shindorf, Director of Elementary Education for the District. “For first-year teachers, it also help them prepare to teach for the first time.”

The Institute is a four-day series of workshops. Veteran teachers new to the District attend the first three days. The Missouri State Teacher’s Association (MSTA) Breakfast kicks off the Institute 7:30 a.m. Mon, Aug. 4 at the Pony Express Museum. Teachers are welcomed to the District and receive District information. In the afternoon, they have an opportunity to work in their classrooms.

Monday afternoon from 3:30 – 5 p.m, Crayons to Computers holds its New Teachers Shopping Event, where new teachers get the first selection on donated school supplies and classroom items. Local businesses donate items year round for teachers to use for free in their classrooms. All teachers are able to “shop” free items at Crayons to Computers throughout the school year.

Tues, Aug 5, teachers become familiar with District technology and work in their content areas. The Women’s Chamber of Commerce sponsors a luncheon at Moila Shrine Temple.

Wed, Aug 6, teachers learn about District curriculum and meet with building principals and instructional coaches to become familiar with their building practices.

Thurs, Aug 7 is for first-year teachers, who learn about classroom management and get additional training on District curriculum.