Considered an inseparable part of the school community for roughly a decade, principal Dan Meier has officially decided to retire.

Meier announced his decision to an audience of faculty and staff during an afterschool meeting Jan. 2. Many were surprised by the announcement, but the crowd knew Meier had been eligible for retirement for several years, remaining principal because of his love for the community.

Assistant Superintendent Leslie Butz spoke at the meeting, praising Meier’s dedication to his students and staff, and declaring him “the #1 cheerleader of Robinson Secondary School.”

“It’s just like Dan to talk about team when announcing an individual decision,” Butz said. “His decisions are always to hire the best and the brightest, to give you the resources you need and to get out of your way […] so you can do the work with your students.”

Butz said to Meier, “I am delighted you’ve made this decision to pursue the second half of your life.” She then proceeded to joke that, if he was looking to become a principal again, she had a few positions for him. 

Meier’s position will be advertised to the public Jan. 9. Potential successors must respond within 7 days, before undergoing the county’s hiring process. This involves at least 3 interviews, including a panel interview, an interview with Butz and one with Superintendent Jack Dale.

Meier has not yet mentioned any future plans, but did say he will remain an involved member of the community.