Special to the Times
After nearly five decades of service to the Union County School District, Eugene Dukes is stepping away from full-time work in education, but not from the community he has called home his entire life.
From walking the halls as a student to leading the district as superintendent, Dukes has worn nearly every hat in the Union County education system since 1975. Teacher, principal, district administrator, coordinator, and superintendent—Dukes has done it all, and then some.
“I’ve done everything there is to do. Basically. I’ve been a teacher, been a principal. I’ve worked at the district office, I’ve been superintendent of schools, and then the last few years I’ve worked in adult ed,” Dukes said in a recent interview. “I’m the director of testing, and we all wear a bunch of hats.”
His retirement marks the end of an era for Union County’s tight-knit education community, but not the end of Dukes’ impact.
A Life Rooted in Union County
Born and raised here, Dukes graduated from the very school where he would later serve as a principal and administrator. His family’s legacy in the area stretches back 12 generations, a fact he shares with pride.
“I went to school here too for 12 years. My family’s been here 12 generations,” Dukes said. “I went first grade through 12th grade here, graduated in this same building right here [Union County High School], and then I went to the University of Florida and then I went to the University of North Florida.”
His blend of humility, humor, and heart has defined his approach to education over the decades. Colleagues describe him as a steadfast leader who always puts the needs of students and staff first.
Leading with Vision, Leaving with Purpose
Dukes’ career spans transformative years in education—decades of shifting policies, growing student populations, and ever-evolving academic standards. Through it all, he remained a constant source of leadership and stability.
In recent years, he has shifted his focus toward adult education and testing. His current role as coordinator reflects his continued commitment to helping people access education and opportunity at every stage of life.
However, even as he transitions out of the school district, Dukes is far from finished with public service.
“It’s surreal. I mean, at this point I haven’t really got used to it yet, but it’s my love,” Dukes said of retiring. “So, we’re going to continue. Like I said, I’m not going anywhere. I’m going to be around.”
Eyes on the Future: Workforce Development and Beyond
Dukes now serves on an executive board focused on regional workforce development—an area he believes is critical to the future of Union County and surrounding areas. The board is working to restructure workforce development regions in Florida, aiming to improve access to job training and placement services.
“We’re trying to make things better and easier to navigate for job seekers,” Dukes explained. “This is about creating real opportunities for people—students and adults alike—to find meaningful work and support their families.”
It’s a natural extension of his life’s work: empowering people through education.
His involvement in adult education and workforce development comes at a pivotal time. As economies evolve and the demand for skilled labor increases, Dukes sees great promise in regional collaboration and innovative workforce strategies.
A Lasting Legacy
Dukes’ departure from day-to-day operations may mark the end of an extraordinary chapter, but the impact of his work will continue to shape the district for years to come.
He has been a mentor to generations of educators, a guide to administrators, and a friendly face for thousands of students. His leadership has left a mark not only on the school district but on the entire Union County community.
Perhaps most inspiring is his continued drive to serve.
“I’m not done,” he said. “I may be retiring from the school system, but I’m still going to be part of this community. There’s still work to be done.”
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