BCSD's Pflueger bids farewell
BONNERS FERRY — As Boundary County School District Superintendent Gary Pflueger handed out diplomas for the last time, he was able to see the students go from little shoes to big ones, and continue on as they take the first step towards the rest of their lives.
Throughout the last week of school, there were celebrations for the students moving up from elementary to middle school, and middle to high school. Among those celebrations was one at the Boundary County Middle School in honor of Pflueger, as he too moves on to the next chapter of his life — retirement.
“He is one of the most personable bosses that I have ever had, and he truly cares about kids,” said Judy Wages of Bonners Ferry High School.
The first step for Pflueger after the attention at the Middle School, was to meet up with friends and staff members at Jack’s Club for an adult style celebration. Both parties had a little roasting for Pflueger, but it was all in good fun, as there were many compliments as well.
“I am grateful he was here,” said Evelyn Smith. “He did a great job.”
Pflueger began teaching in 1977 for the Marsh Valley School District in southeastern Idaho, teaching special education, which makes about 42 years total. Four years ago, Pflueger accepted the job as Superintendent for the Boundary County School District (BCSD).
“I thought it would be easier to take the job than to break in a new superintendent,” said Pflueger. “I was wrong. I just did not know how hard and time consuming the job was.”
He has plans to utilize his time post retirement to enjoy life and take some time with his wife and family. They have two sons, one is a police officer in California and the other an EMT in Washington, providing the couple with travel plans in the future.
“The students,watching them grow into young adults, is the highlight of my time as a teacher,” said Pflueger. “My first fifth grade class at VVES just graduated this year. Working with great teachers is quite an honor, and Bonners Ferry has some.”
The next Superintendent will be Jan Bayer, who will step into the position on July 1.
“My time as Principal at Valley View Elementary School and Superintendent of BCSD has been filled with great joy and occasional challenges. The human being is a complicated animal,” said Pflueger.
As a chapter ends, another begins.
“Superintendent Jan Bayer and the Boundary County School District Board of Trustees will do what is best for the children, staff, and community,” said Pflueger.
With bittersweet goodbys, Pflueger is moving onto the next chapter on his journey, much like the recently graduated students. Residing in a small community makes it so that even after retirement, one can still be active in the community.
Pflueger remains optimistic about future community involvement, saying “Who knows? I still like people, I will find something useful to do.”