Buckingham County Primary School Principal Pennie Allen has announced that she will retire on June 30.

Allen has served as principal of Buckingham Primary for the last four years.

Allen said she’s “served to bring our community together to create a new culture of teaching and learning in a unique place rich with a history of valuing education, where healthy habits and positive character traits are celebrated.”

Allen previously taught third grade at Buckingham Primary for five years prior to becoming principal. She also served as principal at Dillwyn Primary School.

“Mrs. Allen has been a tireless professional dedicated to the best interest of her students,” said Division Superintendent Dr. Cecil Snead. “I’ve never had a moment with her where she didn’t have a vessel of ideas to improve some facet of a child’s life. Her energy and level of dedication will be notably missed within the school system.” 

According to Allen, she began her teaching career in 1986 in Fluvanna County. Allen taught third grade for one year until she went on to teach kindergarten at Dillwyn Primary School for two years.

Allen stayed home with her children for about two years and started a playgroup in her basement.

“I have the greatest respect for Mrs. Pennie Allen,” said District Three Representative and School Board Chairman H. Ed Wise.

“She is a consummate professional in every way. (She’s) a natural leader and an extremely dedicated educator. I am happy for her and saddened for the Buckingham County School District that faces the task of finding her replacement.”

Other accomplishments during Allen’s career include teaching at Fuqua School for nine years, being principal of Dillwyn Primary School for seven years and serving as planning principal for the Carter G. Woodson Education Complex for two years.

When asked what she would miss the most about working in the schools, Allen said the people and the kids.

“I’m thankful for the lessons I’ve learned,” she said.

After retirement, Allen plans on spending time with her grandchildren.

“It’s been a pleasure knowing her for the past four years. I wish the very best for Mrs. Allen as she spends more time with her family. She will undoubtedly be a beacon of light for her grandchildren,” Snead said.