BEDFORD - The next few months will prove to be busy ones for Peter Woodbury Elementary School, as it prepares to bid farewell to its longtime principal, Ken Williams.

The Peter Woodbury community will roll out the red carpet at their next Family Fun Night on Thursday, March 28, with a theme of ?A Royal Goodbye.?

The event will be open to the entire Bedford community, said Assistant Principal Cheryl Daley, and to accommodate well-wishers, there will be two separate time slots – 4 to 5:30 p.m. and 6 to 7:30 p.m.

?For the last 24 years, Mr. Williams has devoted himself tirelessly to helping to shape the minds of countless students in Bedford and beyond,? Daley said. ?I cannot think of anyone in the history of this town who has been more respected or beloved, not only as an educator, but in his treasured role as principal of Peter Woodbury School.?

Daley said Williams has been an icon in the Bedford school system.

?The students he?s influenced over the decades – many of whom are now adults with their own families – have had the unique opportunity to be guided by a man who has taught them that learning can be fun,? she said. ?He has devoted his entire career to empowering the minds and spirits of children everywhere, and he will be deeply missed.?

Daley said children have already started to make Williams goodbye cards, which he has hung in his office.

?He has a history with these kids – he?s so caring and child-centered,? Daley said.

The community is also invited to share a photo, memory or message in an online memory book, which can be found through the school?s website.

Daley said other farewell events are on the horizon, and the community will be updated as the end of the school year approaches.

?It?s important that the community gets a chance to say goodbye,? Daley said.