Rome City Schools welcomed its newest educators this week with a clear message: teaching is more than a profession. It is an opportunity to change lives.
New teachers gathered for the district's annual New Teacher Academy, a three-day orientation that introduced educators to Rome City Schools' mission, instructional expectations and support systems while connecting them with district and school leaders before the first day of school for students on July 31.
Throughout the academy, new teachers met principals, assistant principals, and central office leaders, learned about district initiatives and classroom resources, participated in professional learning sessions, and built new relationships with fellow educators.
Superintendent Dr. Eric L. Holland challenged the new teachers to embrace the responsibility and privilege that comes with serving students.
"This is year 26 for me," Dr. Holland said as he asked the room to snap their fingers. "Just like that, it's going to be year 26 for you. It goes by so fast. What you do is so special because you serve students every single day. Welcome to Rome City Schools. We truly are the best school system in the state of Georgia, and I say that because you are in this room."
Later in the academy, Dr. Holland reminded teachers that their purpose extends beyond instruction.
"Your why is to serve these kids," Dr. Holland said. "This job is heart work, not hard work."
He also encouraged teachers to prioritize their own well-being, reminding them that Rome City Schools provides four self-care days each year and that every principal, assistant principal, and central office leader is committed to supporting them throughout their careers.
Rome Mayor Jim Bojo, a West Rome High School graduate, welcomed the educators on behalf of the community and shared a personal story about a teacher who changed the course of his life.
"When I was in high school, there was a kid in my grade," Bojo said. "He wasn't dumb, but he truly lacked ambition. That student was told he would never amount to anything. There was a teacher who saw that and went out of his way to encourage him and help him along. I'm that student. The teacher was Mr. Dawson, and I'll forever be grateful to him. I challenge all of you here today to be that teacher. There are a lot of kids who just need a little motivation."
Bojo was one of several Rome City Commissioners, Rome City Schools Board of Education members, and community partners on hand to welcome all of the new teachers and staff on the opening day of the academy.
Rome City Schools Board of Education Vice Chair Will Byington, a Rome High School graduate, thanked the new teachers for choosing a profession built on service.
"We are here to support each and every one of you," Byington said. "Teaching is a special profession. I don't know any other profession where people work in the evenings off the clock and spend their own money to buy things for their students. We appreciate all you do, and we hope you all have a great year."
One of the highlights of the academy came during the second day when Dr. Holland introduced every principal and district administrator, often sharing stories about each leader's journey and dedication to students. New teachers also participated in an interactive quiz for Rome City Schools prizes and received district apparel and other Wolfpack gear to officially welcome them to the team.
The academy concluded with teachers prepared to begin the school year equipped with resources, relationships, and a shared commitment to helping every student succeed.
"If you attend Rome City Schools, we're going to go all out for your children," Dr. Holland told the group.