Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123 welcomed new staff members to the learning community this week. To introduce new staff to the district, D123 hosted an orientation program before the start of the 2025-26 school year.
Over the three days, District leadership, instructional coaches, and staff members presented to new staff members on topics such as PBIS, school safety, establishing an engaging learning environment, and curriculum. Monday ended with a bus tour to each District 123 building, where new staff members learned more about the history of the District and community, establishing a stronger connection to the District as a whole.
“New Staff Orientation is our first step in living the Strategic Plan,” D123 Superintendent Dr. Paul Enderle said. “By building relationships and committing to high-quality, student-centered learning, we form the habits that define how we do education in District 123. When collaboration, preparation, and a relentless focus on student success become daily routines, excellence becomes who we are.”
After a breakfast with their mentor in the Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School cafetorium, new staff members arrived at their home schools to set up their classrooms or offices before the start of the school year.
Next week will begin with Opening Institute Days for all staff members to prepare for the 2025-26 school year before welcoming students back into the classrooms starting August 20.