The YCQ faculty orientation took place on both August 31 and September 1 and set an exciting tone  to begin the new school year. On day one, the teachers were greeted by guest speaker, Rabbi Moshe Bamberger, Mashgiach Ruchani at Lander College for Men. Each grade level also had the opportunity to meet in groups with Dr. Emily Witty, Director of ELA Curriculum, Morah Mashie Kopelowitz, Director of Judaic Studies Curriculum, and with directors of YCQ’s Educational Technology. On the second day, Rabbi Daniel Rosenfelt, JHS Rebbe and Rabbi of the Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills, spoke to the faculty about ways to inspire students and help them become more engaged in their learning. A representative from Global Security also spoke to the faculty about school safety protocol. Rabbi Landsman gave a session on the popular book by Dave Burgess, Teach Like a Pirate, on how to increase your passion as a teacher and develop engaging lessons to draw students in like a magnet. The professional development program was informative and educational, which will hopefully make this year a true success! We are looking forward to an exciting school year!