Beech Tree News Network

The Butler County Board of Education has named Robert Tuck as its next superintendent of schools.  That announcement was made Thursday night at a called meeting for that purpose and it culminates an extensive process that began in early March.  Board Chairperson Dr. Amy Hood called the meeting to order and Second District Board member Debbie Hammers made the motion to hire Tuck and Fourth District Board member Delbert Johnson provided the second.  The motion was approved unanimously on a 5-0 vote with Hood, Ryan Daugherty and Richie Ellis all voting in the affirmative.

Robert Tuck, age 46, is currently assistant superintendent with the district. He brings a lengthly resume and extensive experience to the position, including teaching and coaching at Butler County High School for many years, as well as serving as both principal and assistant principal at Butler County Middle School.  Tuck, a Butler County native, was given a four year contract as superintendent and will assume his new responsibilities effecive July 1.

“I’m humbled to be named the next superintendent of Butler County Schools,” said Tuck.  “I take this honor as a privilege to lead our students, staff, and community with a servant’s heart and transformational mindset.”  

Tuck continued, “I would like to thank school board chair Dr. Amy Hood, Vice-Chair Delbert Johnson, board members Ryan Daugherty, Richie Ellis, and Debbie Hammers.  These individuals care deeply about the success of our students and the future of our community,” said Tuck.  “I would personally like to thank our current Superintendent, Scott Howard, for helping me mold my leadership skills and for his past 12 years of leadership for our district."    

Tuck also pointed to the experience and background of the Board as an asset for the district.

“We’ve got experience in education, business owners, people who work in business, and we’ve got people that work in service.  They are able to bring a different lens to help develop that skill and vision of what we want to do to move our district forward,” said Tuck.  

Dr. Hood spoke briefly about the process.  

“I want to express my sincere thanks to the Board for their tireless efforts in this process.  As I said Tuesday, there are so many details that  many people do not understand that goes into the process of the Board, the schools and staff,” said Hood.  “I appreciate the board members and everyone else who is working tirelessly in this strange day and time for the students of Butler County.  Again, to my fellow Board members, thank you for your many sleepless hours of work as we worked to ensure that this process was done fairly.”  

Outgoing Superintendent Scott Howard believes the district is in good hands with Robert Tuck at the helm.

“I want to congratulate Robert and his entire family.  Mr. Tuck has a tremendous proven track record as a school leader. He is very driven and is totally invested in Butler County Schools,” said Howard.  “I want to thank all of the Board members and the Superintendent Search Committee for a job well done. The future is bright for our school district.”

Looking ahead to the job, Tuck said trust and transparency will be among his top priorities as superintendent.

"As superintendent, my goal will be to be visible throughout our district, building relationships and capacity that will support the whole educational experience.  This genuine culture will position our students for academic success and other opportunities outside of the classroom," said Tuck.  

With COVID-19 posing a signigicant challenge to school districts across the country, Tuck believes working together is essential.

“COVID-19 has created a different form of life for all of us.  We live in a time where thinking innovatively is a necessity of life.  We will get through this working together,” said Tuck.  “It has been my goal from the beginning of dealing with this pandemic to plan for the worst, hope for the best, and adjust and adapt when needed.”    

A believer in a holistic approach to education, Tuck is a strong advocate of student activities outside the classroom.

“Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities promote skills such as character and teamwork.  These skills are only an extension of the educational process. The positive impact these programs can have on our students and communities is paramount,” said Tuck.  “Our school district and community have growth potential in the coming years.  It is imperative that future famillies choose Butler County as their home because of the whole student experience we can offer their son or daughter.”  

As a school and community leader, Tuck understands the role of his position and the responsibility it entails.

“Leadership is ulltimately about influence.  My personal goal is to influence Butler County in a positive manner that will position our community for a successful future.  I promis I will lead by example, never asking anyone to do anything I would not be willing to do myself,” said Tuck.  “When I think of the Butler County community, I think of pride in all areas, a blue-collar work ethic, and an overall toughness.  That is who I am at heart.”  

Tuck expects to work closely with teachers and other stakeholders.

“I believe my main responsibility is to put our teachers in the best possible position to succeed as they will in turn put our children in the best possible position to succeed,” said Tuck.  “I look forward to working with everyone in this new capacity and please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions, concerns, or ideas you would like to share. I am ready to put my head down and go to work for Butler County families.”

Robert Tuck’s four-year contract as superintendent will begin July 1, 2020 and will run through June 30, 2024.  

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