GWA Onboarding Excellence: Elevating Orientation Week for New Hires
At George Washington Academy (GWA), we believe that a strong start sets the foundation to a successful journey. Each year, our HR Department organizes an Orientation Week for new hires, designed to ensure they feel welcomed, supported, and ready for the exciting path ahead.The orientation week does not only to introduce them to the school but also helps build connections, immerse in the local culture, and smoothly settle into life at GWA.
The week begins with a warm welcome dinner where new hires can meet their colleagues in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. This event sets a positive tone, fostering a sense of community from day one.
A key part of the experience is the leadership reflection session, led by our Head of School, Dr. Wendy Rubin. In this session, new hires are introduced to the GWA staff, and engaging ice-breaking activities help everyone get acquainted, creating a strong foundation for lasting connections that support a collaborative work environment.
Before diving into essential work-related information, Gwen Bere, our Language Acquisition and Instructional Coach, leads an important session on "Adapting to a New Culture." This session highlights the value of embracing and adjusting to different cultures, which is crucial when working internationally. It’s a great opportunity to explore the richness of Moroccan culture and learn how to navigate it smoothly.
On the practical side, new hires also receive assistance with essential tasks like completing residency paperwork and navigating the immigration process. GWA’s HR team ensures an efficient transition from the moment new staff members are onboarded.
New hires further enhance their experience with language and culture sessions, where they participate in French and Arabic classes. Learning common phrases helps them navigate daily life and connect with locals. Cultural roundtable discussions with current staff foster mutual understanding and respect, deepening their integration into both the GWA community and Moroccan society.
Understanding the benefits available to staff is another crucial part of Orientation Week. The HR team thoroughly explains GWA’s comprehensive benefits package, including managing insurance and other perks, ensuring that new hires feel supported during their time at the school. Additionally, a security session led by a representative from the U.S. Embassy offers valuable tips on staying safe while living and working in Morocco.
Throughout the week, new hires also receive guidance on housing, whether they choose to live on-campus or off-campus. The HR Department helps staff find and secure comfortable accommodations, making sure they feel settled in their new environment. Meetings with the Health Office, IT, and Finance Departments ensure new staff are equipped with everything they need, from healthcare procedures to digital device setups and financial processes.
One of the highlights of the week is the series of excursions around the city, designed to help new hires discover key locations and begin integrating into their new surroundings. These outings provide a glimpse into the vibrant life of the city, helping new hires feel at home.
Every aspect of the week is focused on ensuring a smooth transition into the GWA community, empowering new staff to begin their journey with confidence and make a meaningful impact at the school.
At George Washington Academy, we are committed to providing a welcoming environment that supports professional growth, fosters collaboration, and helps our educators thrive in Morocco’s dynamic American international school community.