The season opener at Katonah-Lewisboro Schools was full of good feelings.
Superintendent Ray Blanch led the team-building pep rally for all the employees of Katonah-Lewisboro Schools on August 27—nearly 500 people gathered in John Jay High School’s newly renovated theater. His message: You matter. You make a difference. You are part of the KLSD team, and we wouldn’t be the same without you.
Every aspect of the gathering highlighted the importance of belonging and mattering, setting the stage for the new school year.
Board of Education president Lorraine Gallagher kicked off the opening day with a message of excitement and support for the school year. Applause and cheers filled the auditorium as Dr. Neill Alleva, assistant superintendent for human resources, celebrated 16 employees who had served the District for 25 years.
Congrats to: June Bourne, Jennifer Cocuzzo, Susan Fowler, Denise Friedly, David Fritsch, Jodi Jeran, Craig Jettelson, Rolf Lunde, Israel Marcos, Tracy Merritt, Tricia Murphy, Renee Psihountas, Martin Rojas, Colleen Walsh, Jill Walsh and Lisa Wolken!
Each school’s principal and business unit announced their new employees—45 in all, including four recent John Jay High School graduates.
The room came together for a friendly KLSD trivia contest, won handily by team DORS (District Office Rock Stars) and celebrated with one of Meadow Pond's favorite school cheers!
Dr. Blanch channeled the energy into a thoughtful presentation of the hidden epidemic of insignificance, and offered ways to reverse the trend through noticing, affirming and showing others how they’re needed. “Belonging and mattering are requirements for thriving,” said Dr. Blanch
After an all-group musical experience—tambourines and rhythm sticks were tucked under the seats!—the educators and staff left with smiles and new camaraderie, humming the song "Stand by Me."