Superintendent's Conference Day was held on Tuesday, Nov. 7, for staff members of the Massapequa Schools. The theme chosen for this conference, "Celebrating Our Successes...Exploring New Paths," was selected as a reflection of the implementation of the district's technology plan, now in its final phase of completion.

"The district is currently exploring new paths as it intensifies the process of curriculum development and alignment in grades kindergarten through 12," noted Robert Schilling, spokesperson for Massapequa Schools, in describing the theme.

Superintendent Dr. Lawrence Pereira and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Robert Aloise addressed these issues in their opening remarks to staff assembled in the Berner Middle School Auditorium. Dr. Pereira stressed the need to reflect upon current practices and to examine pertinent data when making decisions in the district. Dr. Aloise mentioned the need for additional curriculum and program development in grades kindergarten through 12 that is connected and "seamless." He also discussed ongoing staff development intended to support teachers.

Elementary teachers were given copies of the newly written English/language arts curriculum, completed recently by a team of teachers under the supervision of Dr. Aloise. Teachers involved in this curriculum writing project reviewed it with their colleagues.

At the secondary level, professors from New York Institute of Technology presented workshops to teachers of English, science, math and social studies designed to facilitate infusion of technology in these areas. Teachers worked in computer labs at Massapequa High School and accessed relevant websites as they discussed and designed technology-infused lessons.

Conferences such as this assist staff members in Massapequa to discuss their craft with an eye toward improving the delivery of instruction to its children. Dr. Pereira has said he strongly believes that the district's collective efforts must be focused on the improvement of student achievement.