District Newsletter
Greetings:
One of the characteristics of a thriving organization is its commitment to professional development (PD). Our recent fall break included three days of PD, and I took a little time to consider its value in the Haddonfield School District (HSD).
By definition, PD allows people to apply new knowledge and learn new skills that may help them to improve in their profession. In a school district with multiple departments and buildings, it is also a chance for collaboration between those who teach in different locations and at different grade levels.
In our district, PD is directed by a group known as LPDC, the Local Professional Development Committee, led by Christopher Gwin. Gwin taught German at Haddonfield Memorial High School full time for 28 years. After retirement, he returned to the high school as a part time German teacher in 2018. During the 2021-22 school year he was asked to lead the efforts of the LPDC to plan PD for that school year and moving forward.
The LPDC consists of 24 teachers representing all subject areas as well as all three grade-level divisions. They work closely with the administration, first identifying any training that is mandated by the state. These required topics are placed into a schedule that normally includes:
Three full days in November
One full day in February
Three morning sessions (“late start days”) spread throughout the academic year
After accommodating the required training, the LPDC reaches out to the staff for suggestions and self-described needs. These topics are widely varied and may include curricular work, student engagement techniques, educational innovations, grant opportunities, technology training and much, much more.
In discussion with Gwin, it is clear that what makes these experiences particularly valuable here in Haddonfield is that the faculty lead the efforts to create a robust schedule of PD.
“As Executive Director of the National Federation of Modern Language Teachers, I work on PD all across the country,” Gwin said. “What we have in the HSD is rare. Our superintendents and principals listen to the teachers and empower them to direct plans for PD. The result is more engagement and a greater authenticity for teachers to amplify their voices, build community and increase their self-efficacy as educators.”
I am proud to work with the LPDC and with all of the staff who are part of continuous PD planning, who produce an effective schedule with topics that will improve their professionalism and, in the end, improve the learning experiences of our students.
Chuck Klaus, Superintendent of Schools
HMS Ranked as a U.S. News Best Middle School
Mid-November, U.S. News published its rankings for the 2024 Best Middle Schools, and Haddonfield Middle School placed among the top 40% in the state of New Jersey. This position makes HMS a U.S. News Best Middle School.
Take a look here at what was published about HMS including its new ranking. Congratulations!
Elizabeth Haddon Kindies Add and Subtract within Five
In kindergarten, students are working on adding and subtracting within 5. In the photo to the left, Piper W. is playing a "math by myself" game during math workshop. She chose a domino and drew dots on the domino work mat to show each domino in the order they would add or subtract. Piper then adds or subtracts the domino and writes her answer by herself! Well done to all.
Take Advantage of ParentSquare, our School and District Communications App
Parents, we use ParentSquare to communicate with you via text or email.
We encourage you to download the app and register with ParentSquare so that you can take advantage of settings such as how and when you will receive school communications. For example, you may choose to receive them immediately or late in the day when you have time to digest the message.
Here are some helpful tips and instructions:
Click here to download the mobile app.
Click here for instructions how to register for PS from the app.
Watch the "getting started" video here.
Manage PS account settings here.
Thank you!
Playground Ambassadors Needed
We are looking for midday aides at two of our elementary schools! These important staff members assist on the playgrounds, in the cafeteria and in the auditorium.
Please take a look at the Playground Ambassadors flyer posted on our website. It includes all information you need as well as an "apply here" link.
These are part time, paid positions that follow the district calendar so parents and their children can be in school on the same schedule. Thank you for your consideration.
2023-24 Updated COVID-19 Guidelines
Due to an uptick in cases nationwide, we have posted updated COVID-19 guidelines to our website.
- Testing is recommended for students/staff with COVID-19 Symptoms.
- If you test positive for COVID-19, you are encouraged to contact your school nurse.
Specific information and more details can be found on this single-page document. Thank you!
