Tom Kramer, a popular history teacher at South Whidbey High School, has turned in his retirement papers to the school district.

Kramer will call it a career after 39 years teaching civics to students on South Whidbey. His entire teaching career was spent in the halls of South Whidbey High School, formerly Langley High School.

One board member and former student of Kramer’s acknowledged the retirement at the school board meeting May 22.

“Having been a student of his, I would like to thank Mr. Kramer for his 39 years of service,” said Board Member Damian Greene.

A retirement recognition party was planned for May 24. School leaders did not expect Kramer, notorious for shying away from publicity, to attend the party.

“He really does want to slip out the back,” said Superintendent Jo Moccia. “I fully expect he will not attend.”

Kramer stepped down from coaching the boys and girls tennis teams in the 2011-12 school year. His coaching career spanned almost as long as his teaching.