By Kimberly Hopson
L’Observateur

LAPLACE – Across the River Parishes, teachers are preparing for the return of students from winter break Monday morning.
Teachers at John L. Ory Communications Magnet School prepared for their students return with a fun and informative Professional Development Day on Friday.
Fifth-grade teachers attended both math and writing strategy workshops presented by educator Randie Bailey. John L. Ory Principal Teri Noel presided over the day’s events by giving a brief speech before handing it over to Bailey. Participants played ice-breaker math games and enjoyed homemade banana bread before the presentation began.
Just down the hall, high school teachers gathered in the cafeteria for an ACT and college readiness seminar.
The educators gave a warm reception to Catapult Learning representative Carolyn Deyo. The Catapult Learning Co. provides instructional services and professional development options for schools across the country.