The leaders of Catawba County Schools strongly believe in new teacher support and professional development for all employees. To support this belief, the Beginning Teacher Induction (BTI) program was established. According to Rae Leonard-Thompson, Director of New Teacher Support for Catawba County Schools, BTI assists novice teachers with development of skills, knowledge and attitude to succeed in the classroom. During last year's Beginning Teacher Induction, more than 150 new teachers and lateral-entry teachers participated in intensive training in basic, research-based understanding about teaching and learning, a review of the NC Standard Course of Study, and much more," said Leonard-Thompson.

New teachers review technology, classroom management, discuss diverse learning styles, policy and procedures, assessment strategies, and they share dialogue with master teachers and administrators at BTI.

“The Beginning Teacher Induction program works to acclimate first year teachers to the school system and the high expectations our community has for them," said Leonard-Thompson.