As we wrap up another exhilarating week of Induction for our newest teachers at the Garnet Valley School District, it's essential to reflect on the significance of these initial experiences. First impressions are indeed everything, especially in the workplace. A well-executed orientation and Induction process can set the stage for long-term success, both for the new hires and for our district.

The Cost of Poor Onboarding

Research indicates that nearly one-third of new hires start looking for a new job within their first six months. This early attrition not only leads to increased costs but also diminishes the value that new hires bring to the table. In the realm of education, where teaching has never been more challenging than it is today, the stakes are even higher. It takes special people to do a special job, and we owe it to our new educators to provide them with the best possible start.

The Impact of Effective Onboarding

On the flip side, a positive onboarding experience can be transformative. According to Glassdoor, 91% of employees who rated their onboarding experience as highly effective were 18 times more likely to feel highly committed long-term to their organization. This commitment is invaluable in education, where the dedication and enthusiasm of teachers directly impact the quality of education and the well-being of our students.

The Three Pillars of Strategic Onboarding

So, what makes an onboarding process effective? There are three keys to a successful strategic onboarding program: people, culture, and connections.

People

The human element in education is not just important; it's indispensable. From the moment our new teachers stepped into the Garnet Valley School District, they were blanketed in a culture of warmth and support. This week, our team, led by Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Leslee Hutchinson, went above and beyond to make our newest teachers feel like part of the family. Each new teacher was paired with a seasoned teacher-mentor and provided with go-to resources for advice, guidance, and moral support.

But the support didn't stop there. New teachers were given dedicated time to set up and become comfortable in their classrooms, a crucial step in feeling prepared for the school year ahead that is often overlooked. Additionally, we hosted a panel discussion featuring teachers who completed their Induction last year. This peer-to-peer sharing was invaluable. Our second-year teachers offered candid insights, practical tips, and morale-boosting advice on how to navigate the complexities of a new school year. The wisdom shared during this panel will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light for our newest educators.

Culture

Understanding the culture of an organization is vital, but in education, it's a cornerstone. Teachers are not merely employees; they are role models, mentors, and community builders. This week's induction included sessions that immersed our new educators in the values, expectations, and community spirit that define our district.

The culture at Garnet Valley is something special, and it's hard to put into words if you haven't experienced it firsthand. It's a culture of teamwork, where everyone plays a part in shaping our educational environment. This sense of unity starts at the top with our Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Marc Bertrando. His leadership sets the tone, but this spirit of collaboration and mutual respect permeates every layer of our district and creates a cohesive and supportive community.

Connections

In today's educational landscape, building meaningful connections is not just a perk; it's a necessity. Our new teachers were encouraged to network with their peers, engage with mentors, and establish relationships with administrative staff. These connections serve as the bedrock upon which a fulfilling and impactful career can be built.

Gone are the days when teachers operated in isolation, confined behind closed classroom doors. In the modern educational setting, collaboration is key. Teachers are encouraged to connect, share resources, and support each other. This is not just to become effective educators but also to navigate the inevitable challenges that will arise. Whether it's adapting to new educational technologies or dealing with unexpected disruptions in the classroom, a strong network of supportive colleagues can make all the difference.

As we celebrate the close of another successful induction week, we are not just welcoming new teachers; we are fortifying the future of our educational community. To our newest educators, thank you for choosing this special vocation and for becoming a part of our extraordinary team. Here's to a fulfilling and impactful career in the Garnet Valley School District!

Need help with creating an effective Induction program for your teachers? Let us know, the team at Edvative Learning can help support your unique needs when it comes to onboarding your new staff members. 

Don’t forget to join the Edvative Learning PLN to access a number of FREE RESOURCES, including the one below that is designed to offer suggestions about the activities and resources that can support staff during their induction period. The tasks have been broken down into time frames to help make them manageable.