The 2025-2026 academic year officially began Monday for teachers in West Hartford Public Schools with a lively and inspiring convocation.

Superintendent Paul Vicinus. West Hartford Public Schools Convocation. Aug. 25, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

By Ronni Newton

“Hakuna matata!” exclaimed King Philip Principal Joy Wright as she took the stage at Conard High School and welcomed nearly 1,000 teachers and administrators to a lively and inspirational 2025-2026 Convocation ceremony.

Convocation – the “Celebration of a New Year” – is traditionally held on the first official day teachers return to work. It’s held in the Conard auditorium – which is the district’s largest space – but other district schools take turns hosting the event, and this year the honor fell to King Philip Middle Sch

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