After 14 years of hard work and dedication, Principal Bruce Butler is retiring.

Butler served as assistant principal for seven years before he became principal for another seven.

There has been an air of mystery ever since the email regarding his retirement was sent out. Students and parents alike wonder why Butler is retiring.

“It’s a really unique job in that the hours never really end, and I’m not complaining because I signed up for it,” said Butler. “But as I’ve gotten a little older, the energy just isn’t there. I don’t think it’s fair to the students or community if I don’t have the energy to do it right. I’ve loved it beyond words and I’m thankful for the experience. I just feel that it’s time to step out.”

Butler will retire from Fairfax Country after 31 years of service. He started out as a teacher of earth and environmental science for 12 years before becoming an assistant principal at Herndon High School for five years.

It is his time at South Lakes that Butler will cherish the most.

“Nothing has mattered or will have mattered to me in my life as much as working at South Lakes High School,” said Butler. “The joy, the energy, and the spirit of the students and the teachers have made this an incredible experience.”

Butler’s impact as principal was immediate. After Butler’s first year, he was recognized as Most Outstanding New Principal. His efforts were easily recognized by others.

“He never missed any opportunity to support our students,” said receptionist Liz Knapp. “He takes such pride in everything the staff and students accomplish and I don’t know when he’s found the time to do it all.”

Butler has rarely missed sporting events and has never missed the school plays. He has worked tirelessly to make students’ senior years the best.

“He has a keen eye for all the details when it comes to graduation,” said special education teacher Chrissy Kelly. “He is really detail oriented and always comes to the All Night Grad Party.”

Students and staff have found Butler invaluable to the school. Senior Kayla Funaki remembers his welcoming nature when she arrived at South Lakes as a freshman.

“I didn’t want to come here at first, but then when I came here he was so

welcoming and helped me figure everything out,” said Funaki. “I know I can go to him if for anything if I need to.”

Butler plans to stay involved with FCPS during his retirement. After taking an obligatory amount of time off required after retiring, Butler hopes to work with future renovations at other FCPS schools.