New teachers to the Webster Parish School District were formally welcomed during a breakfast held Wednesday, July 30, at Harper Pathways to Excellence in Minden.
As educators arrived, they were greeted with cheers from the Minden High School cheerleaders, who lined the entryway to celebrate both new and returning faculty members.
Hosted by the Greater Minden Chamber of Commerce, the event included breakfast, lunch, swag bags, and opportunities to hear from school officials, community leaders, vendor representatives, and union spokespeople.
Superintendent Johnny Rowland opened the event with remarks and introductions.
“Welcome, and thank you in advance for what you have done, what you are doing, and what you are going to do,” Rowland said. “You are the true difference makers. You are the people who make impossible things happen. You’re in the business of not just changing lives but, in some cases, you’re saving lives and you don’t even know it.”
Following breakfast, new teachers heard from various speakers, including Savannah Jones, Director of Webster Parish Libraries, and Dr. Rebecca Wilson, who spoke about district personnel policies. Vendor representatives, primarily from financial services and insurance providers, were also on site to provide information to new employees.
Local officials, including State Rep. Wayne McMahen, addressed the teachers.
“I don’t think there’s a more important job in our country than teaching,” McMahen said. “You are making a difference … they need help, they need direction, they need somebody to listen, somebody to care, and I thank you for doing that.”
Stephanie Barnette, President and CEO of the Greater Minden Chamber, also welcomed the group. Lunch was provided by Pioneer Comfort Systems.