Van R. Butler Elementary School has welcomed a new principal this year, Dr. Jennifer Hawthorne, and just one month into the role, the school’s new leader is already deeply impressed by the academic strength, supportive staff, and vibrant community that define the campus.
Situated in Santa Rosa Beach, Van R. Butler Elementary serves 852 students from Kindergarten through 5th grade. The school offers a rich variety of academic and enrichment programs, including art, music, physical education, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and a fully equipped media center. Students also benefit from exceptional student education services, bilingual support, and after-school care provided by the SPICE program. Clubs like Lego League, Gardening Club, and the Orff Ensemble give students additional opportunities to grow, explore interests, and build leadership skills. The school is continually expanding opportunities based on student interests.
The school is staffed by more than 70 teachers and 40 support staff members, all dedicated to maintaining the school’s long-standing “A” rating from the Florida Department of Education. Van R. Butler’s commitment to academic excellence supports the broader goal of the Walton County School District, which, under the leadership of Superintendent A. Russell Hughes, is aiming to become the top-ranked school district in Florida. The district currently holds the No. 2 spot statewide.
The student population at VRB is 67 percent white, 21 percent Hispanic, and 4 percent African American. About 30 percent of students qualify for free or reduced lunch. Van R. Butler students posted record-high test scores last school year. Seventy-four percent of students passed the state’s English Language Arts assessment, while 84 percent passed math and 72 percent passed science—making it one of the most academically successful years in the school’s history.
Discipline rates are also among the lowest in the district, a result that school leaders attribute to strong relationships fostered through programs like the Ron Clark Academy House System and Capturing Kids’ Hearts. Both initiatives focus on building trust, belonging, and student engagement.
Family involvement continues to be a driving force behind the school’s success. The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is extremely active, hosting schoolwide events such as the popular Halloween Trunk or Treat and an impressive fundraising gala, the Butler Bear Ball, that brings the community together. In addition to student-centered events, the PTO supports staff with resources and appreciation initiatives throughout the year. Families interested in becoming a member or exploring the PTO’s merchandise can visit their website at vrbpto.org.
Principal Hawthorne, a longtime educator and local resident living on 30A, expressed excitement and pride in joining the Van R. Butler family. “I’ve worked in education as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and Deputy Superintendent—but being at Butler is something special,” the principal shared. “This is an epic school in an amazing community, and I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of it.”
Assistant Principals Allison Harber and Hannah Gomillion share in that enthusiasm as the leadership team continues building on Butler’s strong foundation.
To learn more about Van R. Butler Elementary School, visit vrb.walton.k12.fl.us.
