JAMES CITY COUNTY — Over 2,000 Williamsburg-James City County Schools staff members gathered on Monday, Aug. 18, at Williamsburg Community Chapel to launch the 2025-26 school year.
The event took place a week before students were welcomed back into school buildings across the division.
The Back-to-School Kickoff event — which the division described as part celebratory and part aspirational — was hosted by new Superintendent Daniel F. Keever, who set the division’s goals and tone for the 2025-26 school year with the theme, “United in purpose; inspired by possibilities.”
Staff also heard directly from a student panel that shared what they love about school. According to WJCC Schools, it is “the caring teachers and staff who personalize their education and experiences that make the difference to students.”
Guest speakers at the event included Jim Icenhour, James City County Board of Supervisors Chair, Douglas Pons, City of Williamsburg Mayor, and Sarah Ortego, WJCC Schools Board Chair.
