Mrs. Karyl Goldsmith is an English Teacher at Red Rock High School. She is one of only two current employees who remain with the district from its inaugural year of 1995. Her classroom is a place of wonder and discovery, where students are encouraged to think deeply, to ask difficult questions, to explore new ideas, and to critically analyze the world around them. Fostering such a place of learning did not happen by accident or through talent alone. She honed her craft through decades of continuous learning.
Mrs. Goldsmith built a career seeking new experiences and opportunities to expand her own knowledge. She attended workshops, seminars, and conferences on a wide range of topics. Her dedication to lifelong learning is an inspiration to her students and colleagues alike. She shows everyone that education is not something confined to the walls of a classroom or the pages of a textbook but a journey that continues throughout a lifetime
Mrs. Goldsmith exemplifies the power of living a life of service and learning. I am writing, this month, to underscore the crucial role that ongoing professional development plays in the success of Sedona - Oak Creek Schools and in the success of the students we serve.
Our dedicated teachers are the heart of our educational community, and their commitment to lifelong learning is paramount. Continuous professional development allows our educators to stay abreast of the latest trends, instructional methodologies, and technological advancements. It ensures that we are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide the best possible learning experience for our students.
In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, where new challenges and opportunities emerge regularly, continuous learning is not just beneficial - it is essential. Professional development empowers our teachers to adapt to changing circumstances, implement innovative teaching strategies, and foster a dynamic and engaging learning environment.
Furthermore, investing in our teachers' professional growth directly translates to the increased retention of our most-qualified educators. When teachers are equipped with the latest tools and methodologies, we not only better address the diverse needs of our students, but also cultivate a love for learning and increase our job satisfaction.
Because of the importance placed on ongoing learning in our district, our governing board recently approved an academic calendar that allows for weekly development sessions for teachers and administration. Beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, students in grades 6 through 12 will begin their school day each Wednesday at 10:00am. Teachers though will report at their normal start time and take part in structured professional growth sessions. Those same days, our elementary students will have an early release at 1:05pm, while teachers remain at school for site-based trainings. Busing will continue to be offered each afternoon with extended-day care available free of charge. During these times, students will take part in tutoring, club offerings, as well as reteach and enrichment activities. We offer these support opportunities along with transportation services to reduce, or even eliminate, any inconvenience this schedule may cause for our families.
I encourage all members of our community to support and to appreciate the efforts of our teachers as they engage in ongoing professional learning. Whether through workshops, seminars, or collaborative initiatives, our educators are committed to honing their skills and enhancing the educational experience for every student.
Thank you for your continued support of our schools and the invaluable contributions of our teaching professionals. Together, we can ensure that our students receive the high-quality education they deserve.