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Administrators prepare for upcoming school year at retreat

Two ladies smiling for the camera
Administrators prepare for upcoming school year at retreat

Sixty administrators from the Mount Vernon City School District spent the day Monday strengthening their leadership and professionalism at the administrator retreat at Southern Westchester BOCES. During the day, faculty and staff worked collaboratively to sharpen their skills and prepare for the upcoming school year. 

The day started off with a nutritious breakfast before superintendent Dr. Demario Strickland presented to the crowd, where he discussed his initiatives and goals for the year.

Keynote speaker, Dr. Kathleen Black, gave a presentation on transformational leadership, where she spoke about what transformational leadership is, the six main types of leadership, and the power of high expectations.

Dr. Brown finished the presentation discussing collective efficacy before Jessica Graves, newly appointed Associate Superintendent for Human Resources, gave a presentation about how human resources can help professionals. During this, Ms. Graves touched upon and answered questions about tenure notifications and attendance tracking. 

The day continued with team-building activities. Director of Humanities Marybeth Rhodes and Director of Physical Education and Health Lisa Mayzun emphasized the importance of how these activities are essential to fostering strong communication and collaboration with peers. They encouraged administrators to try these activities with their staff to strengthen relationships and boost morale.

The newly appointed Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel LaJuan White spoke to the audience about what her role entails and what the department oversees.

The afternoon featured various presentations including an overview of how the District has been performing in recent years, navigating the new Infinite Campus platform and instructional focus.

Four administrators smiling for the camera.


 

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Throughout the week, our schools will come alive with engaging, joyful, and meaningful literacy experiences designed to celebrate the power of reading. Students across the district will participate in themed activities, special events, and creative classroom experiences that inspire a lifelong love of books.