On the morning of August 24th, NCPS welcomed its staff and faculty to the all-division Welcome, hosted in Northampton High School. As faculty and staff trickled into the building, the NHS marching band, led by Brad Ford, delighted NCPS by bringing in the drumline, with some tunes.
Welcome and Introductions
During the All-Division Welcome, NCPS heard from Dr. Lisa Martin, who empowered the staff with a message of navigation. "Today is a day to celebrate; we will be navigating the future as a dedicated crew." Dr. Martin informed the staff that "together [they] can weather any storm."
Through the rest of the Welcome, NCPS also heard from Liz Jones, the School Board Member Chair. Other speakers were also Mr. Oliver Bennett, the Vice Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, the Ed Foundation Chair, Billie-Jean Benson, and the representative for Northampton's chapter of the NAACP, Joanne Fitchett (present for Jane Cabarrus).
Some memorable quotes from throughout the inspiring messages that each of these leaders had to say:
"You are all superheroes" - Liz jones
"We must be fair, and yet consistent" - Oliver Bennett
"We are here for you, and for your students" - Billie-Jean Benson
'We can make a different one day at a time" - Joanne Fitchett
Billie-Jean Benson speaks during the opening remarks
Memorable Speakers
After the welcome messages, NCPS staff got to hear from Gerry Brooks, an educator and administrator from Lexington, KY, who has been an inspirer and speaker, due to his viral videos that hit home for a lot of teachers. Mr. Brooks came in to speak to the NCPS staff about personal climate and accountability. Mr. Brooks also was able to highlight the importance of accepting mistakes, while keeping the work environment plenty fun.
Gerry Brooks speaking with Mr. Oliver Bennett
NCPS was also lucky to have another empowering speaker in session, Dr. John B. Gordon III (Dr. JBG3), the Superintendent of Suffolk Schools. Dr. Gordon assisted in empowering the NCPS staff through his important message of navigating the future as a team, and for the students. The staff got to hear Dr. JBG3's message of “the journey” for students and staff, through his dynamic lesson. He also highlighted the impact of supportive systems and innovative learning in classrooms. In summary, Dr. JBG3’s message was to love learning , be a family, and provide solutions.
Dr. John B. Gordon III speaking to NCPS staff during his afternoon session
Service Recognition
At the time of the events, NCPS staff also dedicated the committed workers that have stuck around with the district for many years. With their commitment, NCPS gladly recognized every staff member with over 5 years with the district. Some of those who have been here the longest are Melvin Burton (45 years), Naomi Beach (35 years), Michael Brickhouse (30 years), and Pamela Lilliston (30 years). NCPS is glad to have every member of staff dedicated in this fashion.
Melvin Burton receives a standing ovation during the service recognition ceremony
School Songs and Anthems
During the lively events of the All-Division welcome, each division got to highlight their anthem for the year. In this, each staff member was able to introduce their new team members for the first time, through some great dance moves.
Kiptopeke Elementary School got the party started with their song being “24K Magic”.
Occohannock chose “The Champion” to showcase their goals for the year.
Northampton High School partied the hardest with “Good Day” by Greg Street.
Northampton Middle was inspired by The Lego Movie’s “Everything is Awesome!”
Q.U.E.S.T. kept the good vibes going with “I got the Feeling” by James Brown.
Food Services selected the iconic, "Lunch Lady Land", as performed by Adam Sandler.
Transportation/Ops went with an all-time classic, "Wheels on the Bus".
In closing, the Central Office decided on their theme for the year being, “Catch a Wave” by the Beach Boys.
NCPS is greatly appreciative to have all the staff, faculty, and volunteers back for the upcoming school year. We are ready to take on a new set of challenges, with our great staff.