Windsor Public Schools -

Poquonock school audience proudly celebrate our District Teacher of the Year Mrs. Christina McCann.

Windsor, CT – August 20, 2024 – The 2024-2025 school year began with excitement and enthusiasm as Windsor Public Schools hosted its annual Convocation today, bringing together educators, support staff, coaches, Board of Education members, Town Council representatives, administrative support personnel, and Mayor Nuchette Black-Burke. This event marks the official start of a promising academic year filled with renewed commitment to student success.

Mayor Black-Burke addresses the  crowd for the Windsor Public Schools Convocation marking the start of the 2024-2025 for staff. 

Mayor Black-Burke and JFK Principal Dana Gagne, both proud products of Windsor Public Schools, set the tone for the day with their heartfelt speeches. Their shared journey from students to leaders within the district resonated deeply, emphasizing the lasting impact of Windsor’s educational community.

District Teacher of the Year, Mrs. McCann addresses the staff of Windsor Public Schools. 

The audience was particularly moved by the words of our District Educator of the Year, Mrs. Christina McCann, and paraprofessional Ms. Sue Lyons. Mrs. McCann’s message focused on the importance of self-reflection, building lifelong relationships with students, and partnering with families to support student outcomes. Her call to set high expectations and provide rigorous learning experiences for all students was met with applause, as she emphasized the need for educators to be both relational and aspirational.

John F. Kennedy’s own, Mrs. Sue Lyons, district Paraeducator of the Year and CT Paraeducator of the Year finalist. 

Ms. Lyons touched the hearts of everyone present as she shared her journey of overcoming fear to speak before the entire district. Inspired by a student who encouraged her to accept her nomination, Ms. Lyons reminded us all of the power of our words and actions in shaping the lives of our students. Her courage and dedication to her role as a paraprofessional were truly inspiring, echoing the theme that “You can do anything…”

Distinguished guests from left to right: Daniell Hines, President of the Windsor Education Fund (WEF); Dr. Terrell Hill, Superintendent of Windsor Public Schools; and Mayor Nuchette Black-Burke.

Superintendent Dr. Terrell Hill closed the Convocation with a powerful address, challenging educators to ignite a flame for learning in their students. Drawing on his own experience as a parent of a recent Windsor Public Schools graduate, who will be attending Emerson College this fall, Dr. Hill underscored the importance of nurturing a lifelong love of learning in every student.

Windsor educators pose for a picture during Convocation.

The district is excited to welcome students back on Monday, August 26th, with its annual “Calling All Windsor Men” event, where dads and father figures will greet students at the doors of their schools. Before that, Windsor Public Schools will host its 3rd Annual Back to School Block Party on Thursday, August 22nd, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Sponsored by community partner AMAZON, the event will feature free backpacks and school supplies for students. For more information, visit www.windsorct.org.

The 2024-2025 Convocation was more than just a gathering; it was a celebration of community, commitment, and the shared mission to inspire and empower every student to achieve their fullest potential. With the enthusiasm and dedication displayed today, Windsor Public Schools is ready to hit the ground running for another successful school year.

#weareWINdsor 👐🏽