It was a traditional welcome in an untraditional setting. Dr. Michelle Gosh, the new superintendent for the Brewster Central School District welcomed faculty and staff back for the 2023-2024 school year. The convocation took place at the 50 yard line on the brand new turf field–bright greens and white lines around the enormous Brewster Bear logo.
“The field is a point of pride and an important symbol of the physical beauty of our campus and a tangible representation of the belief we have in our students’ potential and our teachers. It is an investment in our students’ and teachers’ success,” said Gosh.
Board of Education trustee Cynthia Fox challenged district staff to stay present and “dive into your teachable moments" and Library Media Specialist Paul George, President of the Brewster Teachers’ Association asked teachers to share their ideas and successes, “we are stronger together when we lean on each other.”
Marie Sangalli, Chapter Chair of the Service Employees International Union, eloquently reminded the crowd that the service employees are the people who we might not think of first, but who are the foundation of the district.
John Conroy, head of the Administrators Association and the new Principal of JFK Elementary School also provided words of inspiration, “be proactive, prosocial, disciplined and determined to help kids to be motivated and learn.”
There was a celebratory buzz in the stands where teachers and staff-dressed in shades of Brewster green-were seated.
“Be proud of who we are,” said Gosh, “There is no one like us. We are Brewster!”
