Mathews County Public Schools welcomed the return of teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers and other support staff last Wednesday in preparation for Monday’s opening day of the 2025-2026 school year with its employee convocation in the Harry M. Ward Auditorium at Mathews High School. Employees received pins for reaching milestone years with the division. Above, school board chair Dr. Mari Gibbs and Superintendent of Schools Dr. David S. Daniel (back row left and right, respectively) are shown with recognized employees, front row from left, Jennifer Hyde (10 years), Jennifer Clark (20 years), Cynthia Gray (25 years), Heidi Hurst (25 years); back row, Lesley Hunley (15 years), Jennifer Ewell (15 years), Christina Tomcany (15 years), Tony Carlson (20 years), Kevin Hogge (20 years) and Judy Jackson (40 years). Jackson, a fixture in the Mathews Elementary School front office, was also presented with a special plaque on the occasion. Below left, Daniel speaks to the gathered teachers. Bel...