Roanoke Rapids Graded School District Superintendent Dain Butler returned to work today after a successful battle with cancer since March. The Board of Trustees and Central Services hosted a breakfast to welcome him back. Many staff members wore their "Butler Strong" shirts showing their continued support. Butler was diagnosed with CNS lymphoma this spring. After numerous chemotherapy treatments, he received a clean report from his doctors at Duke in September.
Dr. Butler is in his fourth year as Superintendent and is grateful for the relationships that he and his family have built with so many in the community. “Cancer cannot be defeated alone. It takes the support of a village to physically, mentally, and emotionally recover from this disease that affects so many.”
Board Chairman Jay Carlisle said he looks forward to many years of Butler’s continued leadership. “We’re glad he’s back and doing so well. Assistant Superintendent Larry Catalano and the other staff members who took on additional duties did an outstanding job in his absence. We appreciate them and the work they do for our children and their families,” Carlisle added.
At the breakfast meeting Butler thanked the school district, the parents, and the students who did so much to encourage and support his family. “The community of Roanoke Rapids showed my family endless love and support through this whole journey. This speaks volumes to the character and unity of our town.”
Butler will continue to be monitored by his doctors to ensure continued progress.