Wilton's Superintendent of Public Schools Gary Richards maintained a longstanding tradition in the school district Monday afternoon when he welcomed new faculty and staff members to his home. Former superintendent David Clune began the tradition of holding a reception, and Richards has continued it for the past seven years.
"It is part of the culture of the school district," Richards said.
The point of the yearly reception is to show the recently hired staff that they are welcome in the school district and that they are a part of it, he said. The staff should feel like they belong because they are so important to the school system, Richards said.
"The most important thing we do is bring in wonderful people," he said.
The reception at the superintendent's home is not only the ceremonial beginning for the new staff members, it is also the start of the school year.
Wilton High School Principal Tim Canty enjoys the tradition.
"It's the last chance to catch your breath before getting on the treadmill that is the start of the school year," Canty said.
Richards said that because of the preparation and hard work the teachers have done throughout the summer, the district is ready for school the year to begin. Still, he admitted that no one is ever fully organized, and everyone would appreciate more time.
"The teachers always wish it was July, and they are as prepared as they are in late August," the superintendent said.
The faculty teaching kindergarten through Grade 8 begins Aug. 24. The high school staff begins Aug. 25. The first day of school for students is Aug. 30.
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