BRENHAM, BURTON STUDENTS RETURN TO SCHOOL
Washington County students return to the classroom today (Wednesday).
Brenham and Burton ISDs open today for the start of the new school year. Opening enrollment at Brenham ISD is projected at 4,953 students, while approximately 521 students are enrolled in Burton ISD.
A priority for both Brenham ISD Superintendent Dr. Tylor Chaplin and Burton ISD Superintendent Dr. Edna Kennedy has been upgrading school safety and security to protect students and staff. The two school districts have addressed this through facility improvements and additional law enforcement on campuses.
Dr. Chaplin says a strong emphasis has also been placed on engaging students and providing them opportunities for hands-on learning.
Other areas stressed over the summer for Brenham ISD have been identifying student learning gaps brought about by COVID-19, meeting staffing needs amid teacher shortages, and accommodating growth at younger grade levels.
Dr. Kennedy says Burton ISD’s philosophies are planning, preparation and communication.
Dr. Kennedy says that dialogue with the public, as well as maintaining flexibility, is crucial as the school district progresses with the construction and electrical work involved in its bond project.
Both school districts received accountability ratings from the Texas Education Agency on Monday, the first time since before the pandemic. Brenham ISD’s accountability grade was an 81, while Burton ISD received a 94.
