With the first day of classes still two weeks away, Mathews County Public Schools officially kicked off the 2016-2017 school year on Tuesday, as employees returned to take part in the Opening Day Convocation.

This year’s program was held in the Brooks Auditorium at Thomas Hunter Middle School, providing the opportunity to introduce new staff members as well as giving teachers, administrators and support staff a chance to catch up with one another as they get ready for the Sept. 6 opening day.

Boy Scout Troop #124 presented the colors and led the auditorium in the Pledge of Allegiance before a performance of “God Bless America” by music teachers from all three Mathews schools. Assistant Superintendent Lesley Hunley gave opening remarks, welcoming guests and speaking to the excitement around the “fresh start” that each new school year provides.

School board chairman Linda Hodges spoke, continuing the theme of excitement and highlighting past succe...