2021 RECAP: BURTON ISD SUPT. DR. EDNA KENNEDY
As the door closes on 2021, KWHI is talking to officials across Washington County to recap the past year and preview things to come in 2022.
Next up is Burton ISD Superintendent Dr. Edna Kennedy, who summarized the year and talked about the school district’s plans and hopes in the upcoming year.
Dr. Kennedy said while the passage of the 2021 bond proposal could be considered the most exciting event of the year, there were several other accomplishments enjoyed by the district. Those include the completion of projects such as vestibules at the central office and campuses, a new elementary school playground, incentive pay for staff, and the successes of the district’s academic, athletic and extracurricular programs.
Dr. Kennedy said a new instructional coach has made a big difference in aiding students and staff.
COVID-19 was, and continues to be, an obstacle for the district to overcome. However, Dr. Kennedy believes the district was well-equipped to minimize the pandemic’s effects on students’ education.
Heading into next year, Dr. Kennedy said the district will look to continue building up its basketball program and after-school offerings with the Boys and Girls Club of Washington County. It will certainly take time before the bond project materializes into new buildings, but Dr. Kennedy assures that the result will be worth the wait.
Dr. Kennedy became superintendent of Burton ISD in 2015 after the retirement of Jim Palmer, who served in the position from 2003 until his retirement in 2014. Dr. Kennedy was previously the superintendent in Marion ISD.
I’m sure the kids are excited for 2022! But is it correct that the campus isn’t open? I have heard all other area schools are open. This has distanced community members and parents. They aren’t allowed to come to help with classroom gatherings, support the kids or teachers, or attend school functions during school hours. It is such a special time when their kids are little and they are missing out.