The Jr.-Sr. High School pulsed with excitement for the start of the 2025-2026 school year as administration, faculty and staff gather in the auditorium for Superintendent’s Conference Day, held on August 29. Superintendent of Schools Joseph A. Steimel welcomed everyone back from the summer break and set the tone for the school year with his message to follow the district’s motto: “Every Student Matters.” He also encouraged teachers to “commit to innovative teaching strategies” and to “be reflective.” 

Board of Education President Jeffrey Goldhammer acknowledged that faculty and staff rise to accomplish the goals behind the District motto with dedication, creativity and heart. “You bring learning to life, you inspire confidence, and you make sure every student knows they matter,” he said. 

Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and Employee Relations Thomas Fabian then introduced faculty and staff who have served the District for 10 years, 20 years and 30 years.  

Mr. Fabian’s presentation was followed with a presentation by keynote speaker and Leader in Me Global Ambassador Murial Summers, who noted that district employee has the ability to make significant changes in a student’s life. She asked the question, “How are you showing up?” She said, “You have to have systems and structures in place to create an environment to help all students to be seen, known and loved. You are the most important thing to happen to your students.” 

The assembly concluded with an announcement that South Street School, under Principal J.M. Jackson, was recently named the District’s first Lighthouse School. The District is currently working with faculty and administration to acquire Lighthouse School status for all of its facilities through the Franklin Covey Leader in Me Program. 

Click here to view the Empowering Educators, Collaborating for Academic Success slideshow.

Date Added: 9/2/2025