2008 Olympic-Themed Opening Day Held for District Staff
Joplin teachers, administrators, support staff, and school board members gathered at Joplin High School on Thursday, August 14th to celebrate the start of a new school year. Staff opening day is the district’s annual kick-off event for teachers and district staff. This year’s activities emphasized the district’s theme for the 2008-2009 school year – The Legacy Lives On!
“The purpose of this year’s theme is to honor the hard work in our schools that has earned the Joplin School District its well deserved reputation as one of the best districts in Missouri,” says Superintendent Dr. C.J. Huff. “Not only does this theme honor past efforts, it also provides us with a call to action to continue on this legacy by seeking to continuously improve our school system for the betterment of the children we serve.”
Beginning with a torch-lighting ceremony, the Olympic-themed festivities included recognition of district employees who have completed 25, 30, and 35 years of service; speeches by Joplin's School Board President, Miss Anne Sharp, and by Joplin’s 2008 Teacher of the Year, Mr. John Rutledge; and a humorous skit performed by district staff members.
 “Opening day activities are a great opportunity to inspire the staff and community, as well as establish our focus for the school year,” states Dr. Huff. “By coming together and celebrating the start of the school year, we renew our passion for public education and prepare to once again invest ourselves in our vision for the future of our kids.”
Following opening day activities, Joplin teachers attended professional development meetings for the remainder of the day. The first day of school for Joplin students is Monday, August 18th.
posted 08/14/08
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