Longtime Citrus County educator Doug Connors is set to retire this summer. He’s called Lecanto High School home since it opened 33 years ago.
“It's going to be tough walking out the doors,” Connors said. “Loved every minute of it. Wouldn't change a thing."
- Doug Connors has worked at Lecanto High since school opened
- Educator has served as vice principal for 25 years
- First step in his new retired life? Taking a vacation
For 25 years, Connors has been the assistant principal. Before that, he played several other roles at the school, including athletic director.
“I always said they would bury me at second base,” the former baseball coach said.
Connors ordered the first uniforms for the football team. He helped pick the school colors and even the mascot.
He watched Lecanto High get built — and when he walks away this summer, colleagues say he will leaving behind a substantial hole.
“His relationship skills with faculty and kids is outstanding,” said Ron Allen, who's also been at Lecanto since the beginning. “There is nobody else who does it as good as he does. It's going to be weird next year for sure."
The school year is over in Citrus County. The last day for Connors is June 30. After that, he plans to take a vacation.
“I hope I left a good mark for somebody to step in this position and move forward,” Connors said. “Keep the train going down the track."