James Butler was named the new principal of Elaine S. Schlather Intermediate School. SCUC Board Trustees accepted the recommendation at the regular meeting held on April 17, 2025.
Butler is currently serving as the assistant principal at Byron P. Steele High School, a position he has held for the past three school years to inspire students and support his colleagues in a leadership role. Prior to that, he spent 13 years on the campus as an English teacher, later taking on additional responsibilities as coach in football, basketball, and track.
“I am deeply honored to be named the principal at Schlather,” Butler said. “I look forward to leading this incredible school community and working alongside passionate educators, dedicated staff, and supportive families to ensure a positive and empowering environment for students.”
Butler describes his philosophy as rooted in the belief that every student has the potential for greatness, and he is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and academically challenging environment where all students are empowered to grow and succeed.
To that end, he draws strength from a quote by John Quincy Adams: “"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.”
A San Antonio native, Butler is a graduate of Judson High School. After serving as an Army combat medic and lab technician, he returned home and received his Bachelor’s of Science degree from UTSA and a Master’s in Education from Lamar University.