Adam Burket, 44, began a new chapter in his life this week as the new principal of Rappahannock County High School.

Burket, who applied for the position no more than a couple weeks ago comes to RCHS after taking the past year to work on his doctoral in Educational Leadership at the University of Virginia. Prior to that Burket served as principal of Daniel Morgan Middle School in Winchester.

With his athletic build, Burket still looks like he could be a defensive lines worst nightmare. The former offensive tackle of the James Madison University football team appears to have a heart for education that is bigger than any championship game.

He was attracted to RCHS by more than its small community oriented nature.

"This is the smallest school system I have worked with. Here I can get to know the students, parents and community," said Burket in an interview Monday, his first day on the job at a school that has less than 400 students.

The last school Burket worked as high school principal was Spotswood High School in Rockingham County which had more than 1,400 students.

"There are so many positives (at RCHS). The school is very advanced, almost triple than most schools," Burket added.

Burket would like to see the students of RCHS continue with the path they are on.

"We have more children striving for college. I want to see the students take tougher classes so they can be challenged," said Burket.

As far as teaching and administration Burket acknowledges that he "really enjoys teaching and being in the classroom." When it comes to administration Burket likes to spend half of his day out of the office.

"I want to be in the classroom with the students and in the halls. I want to have a pulse on what is going on."

Even though he does like to spend time outside of the office he still has a policy about his desk.

"I don't leave until it is cleared. I will stay and do whatever I need to do."

Burket has an open door policy with the students, parents and staff. "The only time I ever shut my door is when dealing with confidential issues," he said.

Burket also believes that the principal's job does not end at the school's property lines; it extends into the community as well.

"Weekends and nights the principal should be out and about, meeting people, because I work for the community, students and parents. They are my customers," said Burket.

Burket's first inspiration to become an educator was from coaching. He enjoyed the teaching aspect involved. Burket now has been involved in education for 20 years; 10 of those years have been in administration.

"Education and teaching is not a science, it is an art," said Burket. He believes in the concept of "team teaching" and allowing teachers to share their expertise and experience in certain areas.

His goal for RCHS is "not only to be good, but to be great. There's always room for improvement," said Burket.

"I will be there for all events, but as far as participating in coaching, time will not allow it. I really do miss teaching and coaching, but this is what I want to do for now," said Burket.

He lives in Charlottesville and is currently house hunting in Rappahannock County. He has one son, age 11, who lives in Harrisonburg with his former wife.

Dr. Robert Chappell, superintendent of RCPS, said in an interview that "Mr. Burket was an appealing candidate who will work great with the students, parents and staff. We feel he will be a tremendous leader at our school."

A public reception for Burket is being planned for a date and time yet to be announced.