CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – As Albermarle County Public School students enjoy the final weeks of summer break, nearly 180 new teachers are already hard at work preparing for the upcoming school year through the school division’s annual New Teacher Academy, which began Monday.

The multi-day orientation introduces educators to the division’s curriculum, student-centered philosophy and support systems before classrooms fill with students.

Megan Wood, interim superintendent for instruction, said the academy gives both first-year teachers and experienced educators who are new to the division an opportunity to learn, connect and begin building relationships before the school year officially begins.

“I actually came to New Teacher Academy a long time ago as a new teacher,” Wood told Cville Right Now. “The goal is to help orient teachers and begin building a community so that when they return next week, they already have a seat at the table.”

Throughout the academy, teachers are introduced to curriculum resources, the division’s vision, mission and values and strategies for creating inclusive learning environments. Sessions also focus on collaboration, relationship-building and the support systems available throughout the school year.

School leaders said those early connections are just as important as the instructional training.

“This is their first entry point into our school division,” Assistant Director of Professional Learning Tony Borash told Cville Right Now. “They’re building relationships with people who are going through the same experience, so when they walk into larger meetings or into their schools, they’ll already have those connections.”

Transitioning into a new school system can be challenging, even for veteran educators, Wood said.

“Anytime you go through change, it’s hard,” she said. “You’re learning new policies, new procedures, new curriculum resources and new people. That’s why it’s important for teachers to know where their network of support is from day one.”

While the academy focuses on educators, division leaders say the ultimate goal is improving the student experience.

“Professional learning takes ideas into action,” Wood said. “We always ask ourselves how what we’re doing with teachers is going to land on the students’ desks. That’s why we’re here.”

Administrators also hope families recognize the school year begins long before students arrive on the first day.

“Our teachers have been learning and working hard so they’re ready when students walk through the doors,” Wood said. “People sometimes think school starts when students arrive, but for educators, the work never really stops.”

As the first day of school approaches, both leaders said they are energized by the opportunities a new year brings.

“Every year is a fresh start,” Wood said. “It’s a new chapter, full of possibilities.”

For Borash, the academy marks the unofficial beginning of the school year.

“This is our first day of school,” Borash said. “Teachers get excited when students walk through their classroom doors, and this is that moment for us. Every year we’re reminded of the incredible educators joining our division.”

Their message to parents and students is simple.

“We’re ready,” Wood said. “And we can’t wait to welcome your children through our doors.”