Final preparations for the Sept. 2 start of the 2014-2015 school year began last week with teachers and support staffers new to Gloucester Public Schools attending an orientation session Aug. 4 at the T.C. Walker Education Center.

The new employees were welcomed by division human resources director Juanita Smith and heard brief comments from division superintendent Walter Clemons.

They were also addressed by employee services coordinator Craig Smith, Gloucester Education Association president Brian McGovern, and personnel from Gloucester Social Services, who discussed child abuse.

After a lunch break, the orientation for new teachers continued with presentations on licensure, tuition assistance, professional development and technology standards for instructional personnel. Smith also provided a review of school division policies.

Teachers reported to their respective schools for work on Monday with the exception of Petsworth Elementary personnel who held their staff session...