Student panel with Dr. Datteri

Leaders from across District 38 gathered on Aug. 5 at Lewis-Palmer High School to welcome new teachers to the D38 workforce family. Festivities kicked off with Dr. Stacie Datteri, Superintendent, sharing a message with the new team members, some of whom are bringing 20 years of experience to D38, while others are just beginning their careers as educators. 

A few students were invited to participate in a panel led by Dr. Datteri to share words of wisdom and favorite memories with the teachers. The panel of students included Ryder Waneka-Vecchiarelli and Lyla Anderson, both eighth graders at Lewis-Palmer Middle School; Grayson Hester, eleventh grader, and Mason Moore and Quinn Frazier, both twelfth graders, at Lewis-Palmer High School; and Aiden Miller, tenth grader, and Lauren Clawson, twelfth grader, at Palmer Ridge High School. 

Here’s a taste of what students shared during the special presentation: 

“My favorite memory was probably in sixth grade ... Mr. Howard, he brought us in every Wednesday to connect with us boys, and then afterwards he would play football with us. I really liked that,” Ryder said. 

“Mr. Wise in math made every lesson fun. Every topic had its own unique song that we could remember,” said Mason. “I still sing those songs when I’m trying to remember how to do percent change. It’s just right there in my head.” 

“Mr. Russell at Palmer Ridge is always there to help me,” said Aiden. “He can connect with students on different levels, and he can understand if there are things I can’t make it to. He can help with those obstacles.” 

“I was out sick in my sophomore year. I was drowning in schoolwork. I had teachers sit down with me and tell me what was missing,” Lauren said. “It’s great when teachers can work with their students.” 

“I mentioned my Dyslexia,” said Lyla. “Every teacher that has taken the time to learn about it really helps me because I learn differently.” 

"Understand your students,” said Quinn. “They are younger than you, but they are people too. Students have their challenges and busy schedules. Treat them with respect and that will get them to treat you with respect.” 

“The advice I’d give teachers is to stand your ground,” Grayson said. “Be confident with yourself and with teaching.” 

Thank you to the students for taking time to represent the excellence of Lewis-Palmer School District. And welcome to D38’s newest group of teachers!