FWPS Welcomes New Certificated Staff Members at the Fifth Annual Breakfast

On Monday, August 19, Federal Way Public Schools hosted its fifth annual New to FWPS Breakfast at the Federal Way Performing Arts and Events Center, warmly welcoming over 140 new certificated staff members to the district.

The morning kicked off with vibrant musical entertainment by the award-winning Decatur High School Jazz Band, setting a positive and energetic tone for the event. Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer, along with other distinguished speakers including FWPS Board President Dr. Jennifer Jones, FWEA President James Brown, Olympic View K-8 Principal Dr. Jenai Choi, Lakota Teacher Robert Foster, and Scholar Brandon Bao, addressed the new staff, sharing motivating messages of support and encouragement as they begin their new roles.

Dr. Dani Pfeiffer opened the program by acknowledging the exceptional talents within the district and warmly welcoming the new staff, emphasizing the district's unwavering commitment to ensuring every scholar learns, thrives, and succeeds. "We are the foundation for those dreams," Dr. Pfeiffer stated. "We know that the greatest influence on our students’ learning is what happens in the classroom every day. The experiences students have within the walls of your classroom each day will help elevate and inspire all they become and what they will accomplish."

Reflecting on the district's core belief in the limitless potential of every scholar, Dr. Pfeiffer remarked, "Our schools are filled with educators that have an unwavering belief in our young people’s ability to achieve at the highest of levels, unlocking their limitless gifts, talents, and potentials." She urged the new staff to embrace their roles as essential contributors to student success, reminding them that they are "dream makers" who will leave a lasting impact on the lives of their students.

Brandon Bao, a former Student Board Representative, echoed this sentiment, sharing his own experiences with influential teachers. "The work of teachers in Federal Way empowers us to succeed both in the classroom and beyond," Brandon remarked. "To all of you joining our team: I hope you embrace this community as an exciting place to build relationships with a myriad of students from all walks of life."

Olympic View K-8 Principal Dr. Jenai Choi emphasized the district's ongoing commitment to equity and excellence, sharing her perspective as both an administrator and a proud FWPS graduate. "As educators, we hold the amazing power to make a positive impact on the lives of scholars. We’re committed to becoming a more equitable system, ensuring every scholar shines in their unique brilliance and excellence," she stated, inspiring the new staff to carry this mission forward.

Lakota Teacher Robert Foster shared wisdom for those embarking on their first year of teaching, acknowledging the challenges they may face but also the profound rewards. "Teaching is a journey filled with moments of joy alongside periods of uncertainty. Embrace the challenges, for they are the test in which you will forge your greatest strengths to impact lives," he advised.

Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer concluded by emphasizing the district's strong support system, stating, "You are not alone. You have a team of incredible colleagues, mentors, and leaders ready to support you every step of the way." She expressed excitement for the new staff’s impact, saying, "I cannot wait to see your gifts, talents, and courage in our classrooms, pushing our scholars toward their dreams."

Following breakfast, the new staff members headed to Federal Way High School for the two-day New to FWPS Institute, where they will meet with their school teams and prepare for the upcoming school year.

Federal Way Public Schools is excited to welcome these new certificated staff members, many of which are first-time teachers, and looks forward to the positive impact they will have on the district's students.