COEUR d’ALENE — A beloved former Coeur d’Alene High School principal was honored in a big way Friday.

The commons area of CHS was officially dedicated and renamed Casey’s Commons in honor of Steve Casey, who served as vice principal of the high school from 1989-1993 and principal from 1993-2006. A plaque honoring Casey was also unveiled and now hangs in the newly named space.

"I’m just in awe of his legacy at CHS,” said CHS principal Mike Randles. “He built a legacy in both rigor and relationships.”

Rick Rasmussen, a former student of Casey's, recalled how Casey encouraged him to excel both in the classroom and on the field.

“I couldn’t have done it without him,” Rasmussen told the over 100 attendees at Friday’s dedication ceremony. “He always talked to us about giving back. ... I try to do that every day.”

This is not the first time Casey’s work and dedication has been recognized. Casey was named Principal of the Year in 2000 and received the District 1 Distinguished Service Award in 2019.

“Casey would always be out there greeting students, welcoming them to the day,” Rasmussen said. “He was all about the kids.”

Casey received a standing ovation before he even began speaking.

“I’m truly humbled to have the CHS commons named in my honor,” Casey said. “This means a lot more to me than people think.”

“Success is rooted in relationships. ... That’s why the commons are the perfect place to honor Casey’s legacy,” said CHS vice principal Tara Nelson — who also happens to be Casey’s proud daughter.