From the Superintendent, Whitfield County Schools: New and experienced teachers bring perspective to the classroom

Published 8:30 am Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Research consistently shows that the most important factor in successful student learning is an effective classroom teacher. But which is better, seasoned teachers with wisdom and confidence or new teachers full of enthusiasm and fresh instructional ideas?

The truth is, we need both. When experienced educators and new teachers collaborate, the impact on student learning can be remarkable.

Each summer, before school starts, our Teaching and Learning Department and school instructional leaders host multiple professional learning experiences for all of our teachers. We also welcome our new teachers with a three-day induction event where they are introduced to the vision, mission and beliefs of Whitfield County Schools, as well as the instructional practices and information they will need to start the year.

The term “new teacher” can sometimes be misleading. This year, we are welcoming brand-new teachers who have recently graduated or who will soon graduate from college with their initial teaching credentials. This traditional pathway into the education profession, in cooperation with higher education institutions like Dalton State College, is the most common route. These new teachers bring fresh knowledge from their coursework and student teaching and are ready to begin building experiences that help students succeed.

In addition to our newly-minted teachers, we hire a significant number of experienced teachers each year. Some are new to our area, while others are returning to us after a time away, teaching in other school systems. Others are entering education from different career fields.

Many of our career-changing teachers utilize alternative pathways to Georgia teacher certification. Programs such as the master of arts in teaching or the Georgia Teacher Academy for Preparation and Pedagogy are designed to incorporate professional expertise and life experiences with the art and science of teaching.

One of the most rewarding parts of new teacher induction is hearing teachers’ stories. Seeing and hearing about the passion for their craft and the heart they have for students is nothing short of inspiring. Listening to their motivations and unique journeys into education reaffirms that we are bringing the right people into our schools. When educators from different backgrounds and experience levels work together, they create a powerful, collaborative force that lifts students and strengthens our schools beyond what any individual could achieve alone.

Some of our teachers have life experiences, such as international missionary work and teaching English in foreign countries, that give them unique perspectives and valuable insights for our students. Veteran teachers with experience in other school systems, both within our local region and from states as far away as Mississippi and Alaska, bring different experiences and instructional techniques that can strengthen teaching teams and improve student learning.

The experiences and expertise of those entering education as a second career provide a practical element that can help students better understand how learning specific subjects will benefit them in life. For example, some come from industry with strong backgrounds in math and science, seeking more purpose in their work. Others, like a parent of a child with special needs, are inspired to serve in special education after deeply personal experiences.

One of our new teachers brings a rich background in writing screenplays and acting in numerous television shows and movies. Another, a successful medical practitioner, will lead instruction in the Career Academy’s healthcare science program. There are as many interesting and inspiring stories as there are teachers. All of them will enrich our schools by deepening the learning experiences of their students.

Whether they are seasoned veterans or just beginning their journey in education, all teachers serve as role models for students. Their diverse expertise, backgrounds and life experiences show students that success takes many forms and that lifelong learning is essential to achieving it.

Welcome to the 2025-26 school year. I pray that it is the best one yet!

 Dr. Mike Ewton is the superintendent of Whitfield County Schools.