As the new school year begins, we’re not just welcoming students back through the doors, we’re also excited to introduce a number of new teachers to our building.
Some, like Mr. Ferretti, are Hempfield Area alumni. Mr. Ferretti was inspired by his middle school history teacher, Mr. Kollar who told him he’d make a great teacher. Mr. Ferretti held onto those words and turned them into a career. “I want to build connections with all of my students and create strong bonds with them,” he shared. “I want to get to know how each student learns best, and figure out what approaches work well and which ones might not. Every class is different, so I’m excited to see how this year goes.”
In the Social Studies department is Mr. Adamson, who officially began teaching history this year after being a long-term substitute teacher last year. Reflecting on his first day he said, “The experience has been tremendous, primarily because of the support system I have here from the administration, to the social studies department, to my mentor and even the students. When I engage with the students, it always seems like there is a positive outcome and result.”
Mr. Gralluzzo, who teaches English, also spent time last year as a long-term substitute. He described his first official day as “very busy and challenging”. “I’ve learned more about each story I teach every time I teach it to a new group of students. Someone always brings a new perspective to the table that I haven’t thought of, and I’m always happy to hear their thoughts.”
Meanwhile, Mrs. Sweeney is the new Project 18 teacher, located in the history hallway. She originally intended to coach women’s basketball, but she began college as a history major and quickly fell in love with the subject. After doing work with children, she was inspired to change her major to Secondary Education and Comprehensive Social Studies.
Mrs. Seremet brings valuable experience from teaching at Ligonier Valley and Franklin Regional. She emphasizes the importance of compassion in the classroom. “I’ve learned it is important to be compassionate and understanding,” she said. “Building a good rapport with my students is very important to me.”
Lastly, we welcome the new librarian, Mrs. McWilliams. Mrs. McWilliams spent 12 years teaching English and being a school librarian. She wants her impact to be making the library a welcoming space where students feel inspired to explore ideas, be creative, and work together.
