A former science teacher at Leota Middle School has had his Washington state teaching certificate permanently revoked following a conviction for attempted child molestation, according to a final order issued by the state Superintendent of Public Instruction.
📄 John Butz (370KB ∙ PDF file)
John Butz Jr., who had held a Washington education certificate since August 1987, is permanently barred from applying for reinstatement.
The mandatory revocation order, dated June 11, 2026, details a criminal investigation that occurred during the 2024–2025 school year while Butz was employed by the Northshore School District.
According to the state’s findings of fact, between Nov. 16 and Dec. 10, 2024, Butz engaged in online discussions with someone he believed to be the mother of minor children. He arranged to meet for the purpose of engaging in sexual intercourse with a 12-year-old girl.
However, the individuals he was communicating with were commissioned law enforcement officers participating in an International Crimes Against Children task force.
On Dec. 10, 2024, Butz was arrested by law enforcement at the location where he had arranged to meet the child.
The Northshore School District placed Butz on administrative leave the following day.
On Dec. 17, 2024, District Superintendent Michael Tolley filed a complaint with the state’s Office of Professional Practices, alleging Butz demonstrated a lack of good moral character and personal fitness.
Court records cited in the order show Butz was initially charged in King County Superior Court with second-degree attempted rape of a child. The charges were later amended to second-degree attempted child molestation, to which Butz pleaded guilty.
The state order also documents Butz’s departure from the district.
On Jan. 15, 2025, Butz signed a “Resignation Agreement and Release” with the Northshore School District. Under the terms of the agreement, his resignation became effective immediately, and he received a one-time payment of $94,987.64.
Following his conviction, Butz was sentenced to 13 months of incarceration and 36 months of community custody.
He was also ordered to register as a sex offender and is prohibited from having contact with minors for five years without the supervision of a responsible adult who is aware of his conviction.
The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction concluded there was “clear and convincing evidence” that Butz committed a felony crime barring him from future practice as an educator.
The state determined he exhibits a behavioral problem that endangers the educational welfare and personal safety of students.
As a result, Butz’s Washington Education Certificate was permanently revoked by the state, effectively ending his teaching career.
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