From recent college grads to returning employees, Frisco ISD’s newest teachers received a warm welcome from District officials and community sponsors.
Rachel McReynolds – Frisco ISD
Before rolling out the red carpet for students, Frisco ISD’s newest teachers received a welcome of their own at the Frisco Chamber of Commerce’s annual kickoff event in late July.
From recent college graduates to returning employees, teachers were welcomed by District leaders, Chamber officials and community vendors and showered with thanks — and plenty of goodies.
Juggling bags of markers, pens, T-shirts and other swag from the vendor fair, teachers gathered in the Memorial High School cafeteria for food, fun and encouragement.
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Todd Fouche urged teachers to consider education through their students’ eyes — every struggle, every success — and tackle the year with a growth mindset.
That’s the mission driving Jack Zellar, new assistant band director at Reedy High School. Now in his seventh year as a director, Zellar is eager to see Reedy’s young musicians take on a new marching season and grow as performers. He’s also thrilled to finally be part of a district he’s long respected.
“I student-taught in McKinney and had eyes on Frisco ISD for a long time,” Zellar said. “When I had the opportunity to apply here, it was a no-brainer.”
Board President Mark Hill told teachers how grateful he and his fellow trustees were for them, and how instrumental they were to not only the District’s success, but the city’s, as well.
“This district — and all of you — have been a driving force behind the growth and success of this city,” Hill said. “Those of you here today will help carry that legacy forward. I have one request: Go out and be leaders. We need you.”
Later, Community Relations and Frisco Education Foundation Director Ashley Sine revved up the crowd by giving 138 randomly selected teachers each $100 checks. That $13,800 investment was just one way FEF and Community Relations support Frisco ISD, Sine said, encouraging them to apply for the annual Grants for Great Ideas program.
“Our teachers are the heart of our schools,” Sine said. “We are incredibly grateful for the difference you make every single day.”
Special thanks
Frisco ISD and the Frisco Chamber of Commerce are grateful for the support of presenting sponsor CoServ, as well as the following businesses: RBFCU, Preston Trail Community Church, Texans Credit Union, TIAA, HEB, Audiosha, Baylor Scott & White Frisco, Cook Children’s, Credit Union of Texas, CuppaPug, EECU, Lamar National Bank Frisco, Primrose School of Frisco, Texas Republic Bank, Total Care Emergency Room and the United Educators Association. Special thanks go to the businesses who kept our new teachers well fed during the event — Dillas, Donut NV, Donatos Pizza, Market Street, Chick-fil-A Lexington Village, ChaTime, Lucky Goat Coffee and Raising Cane’s — as well as the many businesses who welcomed teachers as vendor table sponsors.