At Imagine Early Learning Centers, strong classrooms begin with confident and supported educators. When teachers feel prepared and connected, children benefit every day. To help new team members start their journey at Imagine, we recently introduced a two-day, in-person New Hire Orientation.
The orientation brings together educators and Home Office staff to learn what makes Imagine special. Over two days, new hires explore our mission, values, and educational philosophy while gaining a deeper understanding of what families can expect from an Imagine classroom.
Participants dive into important areas of practice including health and safety, classroom management, family communication, and thoughtful strategies for supporting children through challenging behaviors. They are also introduced to Imagine’s Employee Ownership model, in which we empower all staff as owners of the company, directly tying the success of our centers to the success of our staff. During the orientation, participants learn about our BLOOMING curriculum framework, which supports the development of the whole child through play, exploration, connection, and intentional teaching.
Over the past two months, our Home Office team has welcomed 28 new educators and staff members through this orientation. The sessions have been filled with thoughtful conversations, collaboration, and the positive energy that new team members bring to our centers.
Throughout the sessions, educators have the opportunity to speak openly, ask questions, and interact with one another while reflecting on their goals as part of the Imagine community. The experience encourages collaboration and shared learning while helping new team members understand what is essential in early childhood education. Conversations focus on the developmental needs of young children, meaningful relationships with families, teamwork among educators, and personal growth as professionals.
One participant shared, “I’m ready to step into my role and share Imagine’s BLOOMING framework and values with every family I meet.” Others reflected on the strong sense of community built during the sessions and the opportunity to deepen their understanding of how play, connection, and intentional teaching support children’s growth.
Moving forward, every new hire will participate in this orientation, and the program will also serve as a refresher for experienced staff.
When educators feel connected to a shared purpose, classrooms thrive.
Children, families, and educators grow together as part of the Imagine community, creating learning environments where everyone has the opportunity to bloom.
Kayleen Carillo Velez, Assistant Director of Vet Kids, speaking with the new hire cohort during orientation.
