PERRY HALL, MD—A local principal is celebrating her retirement.

Honeygo Elementary School Principal Charlene Behnke is retiring from Baltimore County Public Schools, having helped open the doors at Honeygo Elementary in 2018 and having been with the school system for three decades.

Behnke was also named 2019-20 BCPS Elementary Principal of the Year.

“It’s obvious to anyone who has met Charlene that she gives her all – energy and heart – to do what’s best for kids – each and every single day,” said BCPS Board of Education member Julie Henn. “And she has done so for 30 years! Watching her leadership as she opened Honeygo Elementary was truly an inspiration as she gracefully and expertly mastered the challenge. Congratulations Charlene!”

“Congratulations to Honeygo Elementary School Principal Charlene Behnke on her retirement from Baltimore County Public Schools,” said Councilman David Marks. “For 30 years, Ms. Behnke has demonstrated extraordinary dedication to the students and families of Baltimore County.”

Kevin Harrington has been named the new principal at Honeygo Elementary.

“I have loved my 18 years in BCPS and I am constantly inspired by the amazing teachers and students I get to work with,” said Harrington. “I have been a principal for the past 7 years, and I have truly enjoyed working with teachers, staff, students, and families to support the continued progress of our schools.”

Harrington and his wife have three children and live in Harford County. Two are middle school students and the youngest is in elementary school.

[Image via Councilman David Marks]