New teachers in Lake Washington School District (LWSD) were celebrated for completing their first year of teaching on May 22. As part of the event, teachers were treated to ice cream by Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream. The event was hosted by the Lake Washington. New Teacher Support Program (NTSP), a mentoring program that provides support to new teachers during a crucial time in their professional development.

NTSP brings together the best resources from the staff development department to assist new teachers in their transition to the culture and standards of LWSD. The mentoring program provides support, guidance and resources on an individual basis as needed.

“The New Teacher Support Program helped me in my first year of teaching by supporting me to build effective instructional practices, develop positive relationships with families, build classroom community and not forget to practice self-care,” said Alisa Reebs, first grade teacher at Audubon Elementary. 

“What I appreciated most about the mentoring program was that my coach was my constant support and motivator,” Reebs continued. “Their weekly visits helped direct and hone my focus towards positive student outcomes. Secondly, by going on a peer visit and observing distinguished teachers, I was able to bring back new ideas and approaches. I immediately implemented them in my own classroom.”

“In the coming years, I hope to polish my craft by being the most effective and compassionate teacher I can, so my students feel safe, valued and challenged,” said Reebs.