Waymon Butler

In the communities that make up Meridian, the echoes of footsteps tell a story of dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to education. Among those footsteps are those of Waymon Butler, a Meridian School Board member whose life story reads like an inspirational novel, marked by passion, service, and a deep love for his community.

Waymon’s journey began in the mid-1960s at Banneker, an all-black school in Pulaski, where he taught seventh and eighth-grade students. “My mother was the principal there,” he recalls, his voice tinged with pride. “She was in education for about 38 years, and she was one of my inspirations to go into education.” This early experience, under the guidance of his mother, laid the foundation for Waymon’s long and impactful career in education.

After graduating from SIU, Waymon’s path led him to Meridian when the schools consolidated. He started as a driver’s education and biology teacher before moving into coaching and eventually administration. “I coached track, basketball, and baseball at the junior high,” he says with a chuckle, reminiscing about the multi-purpose roles he filled. “It was just me and one assistant.”

Waymon’s dedication to his students and his community saw him rise through the ranks to become assistant principal and eventually principal at Meridian High School. “I became principal here in the early ‘70s and served for about ten years before finishing my career as principal at the elementary school,” he explains. His tenure as principal was marked by a commitment to fostering an environment where students could thrive, a philosophy he carried with him to the school board.

But Waymon’s service didn’t stop at retirement. After a stint as mayor of Mounds, where he served for eight years, the call to serve on the school board came unexpectedly. “Someone left the position, and I was just sitting around, kind of bored,” he admits. “I applied, and luckily, the school board selected me.” Waymon’s wealth of experience in education and administration made him an invaluable asset to the board, a role he took on with the same enthusiasm and dedication that marked his teaching career.

For Waymon, being a school board member is about more than just making decisions; it’s about being a voice for the community and a champion for the students. “You’ve got to love kids and want them to succeed,” he asserts. “The world has changed so much, and if a youngster doesn’t get an education, they’re going to be left behind.” His passion for ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed is evident in his advocacy for a holistic approach to education, one that includes not just academic achievement but also the development of talents in arts, sports, and other areas.

Waymon’s perspective on the future of education in Meridian is both realistic and hopeful. He acknowledges the challenges, such as the lack of resources for specialized programs in arts and drama, but remains optimistic about the potential for Meridian students as the District strives to provide better opportunities for students. “There’s a kid out there who could be a singer or an actor, but they’re not getting the opportunity because we don’t have the resources,” he laments. His vision for the future is one where every student in the community has the chance to explore and develop their talents to the fullest. And finding a way to bring those resources into practical focus is very much on Waymon’s mind.

Waymon’s commitment to his community extends beyond his professional roles. He takes pride in the achievements of Meridian’s alumni, from doctors and lawyers to ambassadors and performers. “We’ve got lawyers, doctors, dentists, and even an ambassador in China,” he beams. These success stories are a testament to the quality of education in Meridian and the supportive environment that Waymon and his colleagues have worked tirelessly to create.

As he reflects on his journey, Waymon remains humble about his contributions but firm in his belief in the power of education. “I’m 81 now, and I’m not going to be here forever,” he says with a smile. “But while I’m here, I want to help move us forward.” His dedication to the community, his passion for education, and his unwavering commitment to the success of every student make Waymon Butler a true beacon of inspiration in Meridian.

In a world where public education faces numerous challenges, Waymon Butler’s story is a reminder of the impact that one dedicated individual can have. His life’s work stands as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. As Meridian continues to grow and evolve, the footsteps of Waymon Butler will echo through its halls for generations to come, inspiring future educators and leaders to carry forward his legacy of excellence and dedication.