Teachers make a difference in the lives of our students. Federal Way Public Schools honored those difference-makers at the second annual New to FWPS Teacher Breakfast.
The Monday event welcomed teachers who are new to the school district. Decatur High School Jazz Band greeted the incoming teachers with a jazz performance, followed by a breakfast and program.
During the program, Superintendent Dr. Tammy Campbell spoke about the impact teachers have in students’ lives.
“Our core mission is providing environments where our students develop vision, skills, and everything they need to realize every possibility before them. We want to be merchants of hope who opens doors,” said Dr. Campbell. “We are difference-makers. We are either opening a door or closing one.”
FWPS scholar, Amy Ojeaburu, delivered a speech about the positive impact teachers make.
“In building young scholars up, teachers supply us with the next artists, the next public servants, and the next leaders. You shape our future.”
FWPS graduate, and second-year teacher, Jordan Rawls, was sitting in the audience at last year’s New to FWPS Teacher Breakfast. This year, he was on stage, sharing his story and inspiring this year’s new to FWPS teachers.
Several other speakers shared words of encouragement including:
• Shannon McCann, president of the Federal Way Education Association (FWEA)
• Ra’jeanna Conerly, principal of Lakeland Elementary School
• Mayor Jim Ferrell
Throughout the event, teachers connected with their fellow staff and administrators, as well as community members. These interactions help foster positive connections ahead of the 2019-20 school year.
Schools can’t do it alone, and several sponsors donated to the event. The district appreciates the generous contributions of BNBuilders, CBRE | Heery, Cornerstone General Contractors, FORMA Construction, Integrus Architecture, and World Vision. One of the sponsors, World Vision, generously donated a backpack filled with supplies to each new teacher.
This event aligns with FWPS strategic plan pillar 3, which focuses on investing in people. Pillar 3 emphasizes the importance of attracting, developing, and retaining talented and committed staff.
