As the 2024–2025 school year draws to a close, Fauquier High School (FHS) prepares to say goodbye to a remarkable group of educators whose dedication, energy and heart have shaped our school community for decades. This year, FHS celebrates the retirements of Brian Funk, Robert Glascock, Karl Buckwalter, Paul Reynolds, Wayne Leavell and Mary Violett — teachers and mentors who have made an unforgettable impact on countless students.
Each of these individuals brought a special spirit to FHS. Whether it was the encouragement they offered, the lessons they taught beyond the textbook or the simple, daily moments that made students feel seen and supported, their presence helped make our school a place students were excited to come to each day.
Funk, a dedicated special education teacher, has spent over 36 years in education, 25 of them at FHS, championing the success and well-being of every student. Inspired by family educators and a hands-on college experience working with students with special needs, Funk quickly knew that special education was his calling. His classroom became a space where breakthroughs were not just hoped for but expected, like when a nonverbal student became “the most communicative and chatty student” in the class. He taught his students to believe in themselves, and in return, he says they taught him “not to stress over the small things in life.” While he looks forward to retiring his pen from writing IEPs, Funk leaves behind a legacy rooted in empathy, humility and the belief that teachers do make a difference. “Enjoy what you do,” he advises future educators. “Our students need teachers, discipline and routine in their lives.”
A 1979 FHS graduate, Glascock’s 42-year career began with a passion for football and led to both the classroom and administration. Starting at Mary Walter Elementary in 1983, he eventually made his way to FHS in 2005. Glascock coached and taught across multiple schools, bringing heart and humor with him wherever he went, including the unforgettable moment when his daughter dressed up as him for spirit week, mustache and all. His proudest moments? Coaching and teaching all four of his children. “It’s home,” he says of FHS. “I’ve seen the growth of families. I know where kids live. I know their backgrounds. That helps me build relationships,” continued Glascock. After years of supporting students both academically and personally, Glascock is looking forward to traveling the U.S. with his wife and leaving behind the hallway bathroom duty.
Buckwalter has made a powerful impact in the physical education and driver’s education departments. Known affectionately by generations of students, he has been a trusted guide, whether it was navigating the basketball court or teaching safe driving behind the wheel. His quiet leadership, steady presence and patient teaching style made a strong and lasting impression on both students and colleagues. Buckwalter is part of that rare group of teachers whose actions spoke volumes, reminding us that influence doesn’t always require a spotlight to be deeply felt.
For 38 years, Reynolds has brought math to life for students at FHS — with humor, energy, and just the right amount of flair. Known for making math class both rigorous and relatable, Reynolds describes the classroom as a place for discovery, not just instruction: “Everyone can solve things differently… and still arrive at the same solution.” One legendary moment involved him performing a choreographed skit for a fellow colleague’s birthday. A memory that, fortunately for all, predated smartphones. While he admits he won’t miss email, which he remembers before it was even called email, Reynolds will miss the daily interactions that defined his decades here. His advice to future educators? “Don’t be rigid. It’s easy to be negative, so don’t. Kids are people too. Find something positive about every day.” In retirement, he’s most excited to attend weeknight concerts and theater shows, without worrying about the next day’s 7:00 a.m. bell.
Leavell and Violett both served as long-standing and respected members of the FHS math department, devoting decades to helping students overcome their fears and doubts about mathematics. Through their calm demeanor, high standards and deep care for their students, they created classrooms where young minds were challenged and supported in equal measure. Their contributions often happened quietly, during tutoring sessions, after-school help and those one-on-one conversations that students never forget.
Over the course of their careers, these educators witnessed the evolution of teaching — from rows of desks and chalkboards to digital classrooms and collaborative learning. Through it all, they held fast to timeless values: compassion, patience, humor and a belief in their students’ potential. They made space for growth, not only for students, but for themselves, embracing change and modeling lifelong learning. These teachers’ careers are filled with moments that capture the true heart of education.
As they step into retirement, they look forward to new adventures, from traveling and spending time with loved ones to simply enjoying a slower pace of life. Though they may be leaving the building, the lessons they’ve taught, the encouragement they’ve given and the spirit they’ve shared will remain woven into the fabric of FHS for years to come.
Thank you, Class of 2025 retirees, for everything. You will always be a part of the FHS family.
