By Anthony Gorges
JC Post
On Wednesday morning, approximately 100 new teachers were welcomed into the USD 475 - Geary County School District and into the Junction City/Geary County Community.
The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce puts on the annual event in the cafeteria at Junction City High School. The event featured a breakfast catered by JC's BBQ and Grill, a bag stuffed full of supplies donated by local sponsors, and speeches from community leaders.
Speakers included Junction City manager Kim Zimmerman, Geary County Commission Chairman Keith Ascher, Garrison Command Sergeant Major (CSM) John T. Adkerson (Fort Riley), and USD 475 - Geary County Schools Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston.
Each speaker emphasized the importance of being a teacher and how much they are appreciated and supported within the school district and the community.
Keith Ascher, the Commission Chair for the Geary County Commission, said his wife taught in USD 475 for 40 years, and his sister-in-laws were teachers too. He pointed out that everyone has/had a favorite teacher from school. "I challenge each of you to be that teacher that everyone remembers," Ascher said. "Thank you for choosing this inspiring profession."
Dr. Reginald Eggleston, Superintendent of USD 475, expressed his appreciation to the new teachers for choosing to be part of the Geary County School District, and thanked community members, the Chamber of Commerce, and all the sponsors for making the breakfast happen. "There is no one profession that impacts the world, the nation, the state, and the community, like ours," Dr. Eggleston said. He also mentioned a dynamic trio that helps bring kids along through their lives. "The dynamic trio is made up of schools, communities, and parents. The three of us working together can raise children, support children, and educate children."
At the New Teachers Breakfast, there were approximately 250 people in attendance. As one of the door prizes, the City of Junction City awarded two new teachers who live in Junction City two months of free utilities.
The first day of school in USD 475 - Geary County Schools is Monday, August 11.