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Wissahickon reports largest induction class, district staff say school year opened smoothly
Summary
District administrators reported hiring more than 100 staff since March, an induction of 32 new teachers and positive feedback from the first two days of the 2025–26 school year.
Wissahickon School District administrators told the board on Aug. 26 that the district completed an extensive summer hiring season, welcomed its largest induction class and celebrated a largely smooth and energetic start to the 2025'26 school year.
Danielle (HR director) said the district's induction this year was its largest: "We had our largest induction yet at 32 teachers," she said during the presentations segment. She said the district filled more than 103 positions since March, conducted dozens of interview rounds and received more than 2,100 applicants during the hiring season.
Assistant Superintendent Sean Gardner and other administrators described three days of induction and multiple professional-development sessions for faculty and staff, including coursework on culturally responsive practices, multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS), restorative practices and the Danielson evaluation framework. Gardner said building leaders led many of the induction workshops; the practice allowed new teachers to learn from principals and assistant principals in the district.
Board members and student representatives reported positive feedback after the first two days of classes. Student board representative Reed Harris said freshman orientation and "Wist Links" leaders helped many new students get acclimated: "We had over 85% of freshmen come to orientation," he said, adding that student leaders wore blue shirts to help guide new students around the building.
Superintendent (name not specified) said the district's theme for the year is "every student every day," focusing on ensuring students feel supported, challenged and valued. The superintendent said she and Gardner visited all six district schools on the first day.
Why it matters: Staffing and induction quality affect classroom continuity and instruction. Administrators told the board they will convert general goals into measurable performance indicators and continue to monitor hiring and retention throughout the year.
No formal board vote was required for the presentations and informational updates.
