Garden City educators participate in 2026 Superintendent’s Conference Day
Garden City educators participate in 2026
Superintendent’s Conference Day
Garden City Public Schools officially welcomed staff back for the 2026–2027 school year during its annual Superintendent’s Conference Day on Aug. 26 at Garden City High School. The day brought educators and staff together for professional learning, recognition, collaboration and preparation for the year ahead.
The program opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha, followed by a performance of the national anthem by senior Mina DiLoreto. Mina was then joined by fellow seniors Kate Koczko and Max Mariacher for a performance of “Vienna” by Billy Joel.
Board of Education President Ms. Kristen Pappas reflected on the classroom as a stage and the responsibility educators have to their students.
“Being given this stage is an incredible privilege because our audience isn't just any audience, it is a room full of children who are looking to us to inspire them, teach them, challenge them, and give them a safe place to grow,” she said. “They are looking to us to help them take risks, make mistakes, discover what they are capable of, and find their own voices.”
PTA President Ms. Kristen Whitaker and SEPTA President Ms. Kiersten Cooke followed by recognizing the ways educators’ work extends beyond academics. They highlighted the role teachers and staff play in helping students build confidence, navigate challenges, discover their talents and learn more about themselves. They also reaffirmed their dedication to partnering with the district and supporting educators while expressing appreciation for the ways staff support students’ growth and success.
Dr. Sinha then recognized the district’s many partners, including the Boosters, “Friends of” groups, Garden City Police Department, along with the CSEA, paraprofessionals, GCTA and GCAA leadership teams. She also thanked departments that support the district behind the scenes, including technology, facilities and grounds, transportation, clerical staff, faculty, administrators and the central office.
The morning also included a special recognition of employees who have dedicated 20 to 35 years of service to the district. Nine staff members celebrated 30 years of service, 16 celebrated 25 years and 15 celebrated 20 years. Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and Leadership Development Ms. Nanine McLaughlin also welcomed the new faculty and staff members joining Garden City this school year.
The morning also featured workshops by Director of Technology and Innovation Ms. Lauren Maguire, who presented on student data privacy, and Mr. Lou LeBlanc, who led a session on safety awareness.
Dr. Sinha then delivered her annual address, focusing on the power of connection and its importance in education.
“The importance of connection is simple but powerful in the work we do,” she shared. “Underneath accomplishments are the connections we build with one another. We all have different roles but every one of us has the opportunity to make a student feel known, valued and connected.”
As part of her address, Dr. Sinha introduced former Garden City teacher Mr. Edwin Muller, who will celebrate his 100th birthday in February. Mr. Muller taught at Garden City’s Stewart School from 1955–1989 and continues to return to the district each year as an active participant in its Veterans Day recognition ceremony. He reflected on his time at Stewart and the lasting connections he has maintained with many of his former students and colleagues.
Dr. Sinha presented Mr. Muller with special proclamations on behalf of State Assemblyman Ed Ra and State Senator Siela Bynoe in recognition of his longstanding contributions to the Garden City community.
The afternoon included variety of professional learning and training sessions designed to prepare staff for the school year. Staff participated in collaborative meetings and professional development within their respective schools, including faculty and staff meetings, mental health training, and in-building preparation time for teachers, teaching assistants, paraprofessionals, teacher aides and clerical staff.
The day provided Garden City educators and staff with an opportunity to reconnect, learn, celebrate one another and prepare for another successful school year.