Kicks Off the Year with Generous Community Support and Robust Professional Development

Dover School District Kicks Off the Year with Generous Community Support and Robust Professional Development

The Dover School District has hit the ground running as the new school year begins, with incredible support from community partners, extensive professional development for staff, and exciting updates on curriculum and instructional methods.

Generous Community Donations Make a Difference

The district extends heartfelt gratitude to the numerous community organizations and businesses that have donated school supplies to help students start the year equipped for success. This year’s donations have grown significantly, with highlights including:

• Applebee’s, YMCA, and Staples: Provided essential school supplies.

• Costco: Donated an impressive 384 backpacks with supplies.

• Jersey Cares, Greenbrier at Fox Ridge, and United Way of Northern NJ: Contributed over 215 backpacks and supplies collectively.

• Party Time Productions, Sonitrol Security Systems, Provident Bank, and Four Seasons Women’s Group: Donated backpacks, supplies, and classroom kits.

A special shout-out goes to Mr. Hoyt’s mother and the Four Seasons Women’s Group for spearheading a donation valued at $400. Thanks to these contributions, the district’s community liaison team has been working tirelessly to distribute supplies to families in need, ensuring all students are ready to thrive.

Professional Development Prepares Staff for Success

To ensure high-quality instruction, the district hosted several targeted professional development sessions for staff at the start of the year:

1. iReady Math Training:

• Kindergarten through eighth-grade math teachers were introduced to the district’s new math program, iReady, which replaces GoMath.

• Teachers focused on “Lesson Zero,” a foundational step to set routines and expectations before instruction begins, emphasizing the “Try, Discuss, Connect” instructional method.

2. Executive Function Training:

• Secondary staff participated in day one of a two-part series presented by NJCIE.

• The training covered learner diversity, the importance of executive functioning in academic performance, and inclusive instructional design principles.

• Part two will be held during November’s full in-service day, with elementary staff training to follow later in the year.

3. Paraprofessional Academy:

• The Academy kicked off with a focus on special education law, student classification categories, and understanding the differences between the medical and social models of disability.

• Additional training sessions will occur throughout the year.

4. Preschool Developmental Screenings:

• Preschool staff reviewed the ESI-3 screening tool, which helps identify developmental milestones at the start of the school year.

5. Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop Training:

• Both elementary and middle school staff participated in workshops focusing on literacy instruction and inclusion strategies, with more training sessions scheduled in the coming weeks.

Curriculum Development and Approval

The district continues to prioritize curriculum advancement. This month, the Board reviewed and approved several new curricula developed over the summer by curriculum writers and supervisors. These updates reflect the district’s commitment to maintaining high standards and delivering robust, comprehensive instructional programs.

A Community That Cares

The generosity of the Dover community and its partners continues to be a cornerstone of the district’s success. From donated school supplies to collaborative professional learning opportunities, the district is grateful for the collective effort that contributes to a thriving educational environment.

As the new academic year unfolds, the Dover School District is poised for success, thanks to the dedication of its staff, the generosity of its community, and its commitment to delivering quality education. Stay tuned for more updates as the year progresses!