Beginning of the year in-services are usually a combination of meetings, staff development, professional development and time to set up classrooms. It’s also a time for teachers to focus on learning new methods and strategies to improve their teaching.

Franklin County Schools kicked off the 2024-2025 school year August 1 with teachers, administrators, staff and support professionals meeting at the Belgreen High School auditorium for their annual in-service.

The FCS orientation and luncheon for new teachers took place Aug. 2 at Red Bay First Baptist Church.  The Alabama Education Association sponsored the luncheon. Red Bay High School students Asia Mansell, eighth grade, and Jax Allison, seventh grade, served as greeters for the event and handed out candles to all the new teachers.

Jennifer Warhurst, Elementary Curriculum Director, introduced the new teachers, guests and directors. Wesley Thigpen, Lori Hardin and Brent Gillespie spoke. Topics included encouragement, professionalism, grading, safety, classroom management, positive behavior, social media, mentee program discussion and activity scenarios.

The Russellville City Schools’ in-service took place Aug. 5 at the RCS auditorium. Russellville First Baptist Church hosted a luncheon at the church. Attendees also played games, and winners received gift certificates for their classrooms.

“I so appreciate Russellville First Baptist Church, which serves lunch to our teachers, administrators and support staff every year on their first day back to school,” said RCS Board of Education member Kim Clonts. “RCS is the heart of our community, and RFBC always makes them feel special and celebrates their dedication to students.”

Tracy Moore, Alabama Education Association Uniserve Director-District 4, also attended in-service meetings. She and AEA professional organizers distributed resources to members and registered new public education employees for AEA membership. Other vendors were available with educator information for finances, insurance and new programs including the Helping Families Initiative.