2024 RECAP: BRENHAM ISD SUPT. CLAY GILLENTINE

  

As 2024 comes to a close, KWHI is getting the thoughts of local officials on how this year shaped out and what may be on the horizon next year.

We begin with Brenham ISD Superintendent Clay Gillentine, who discussed some major happenings for the school district in 2024 and some of its plans in 2025.

Gillentine feels the district is riding into the new year with a “lot of momentum”, whether it be from the various successes of students in academics and extracurriculars, to the leadership at the campus and districtwide levels, to the backing of the community at large. 

One positive mentioned during recent school board meetings is Brenham ISD surpassing expectations for enrollment and average daily attendance, something that Gillentine says goes a long way in supporting the school district.

A key emphasis in the transition from the previous school year to the current year was streamlining the number of employees in order to help reduce personnel costs.  Through the downsizing, Gillentine applauds the teachers, administrators and staff for their efforts to keep operations running smoothly. 

Moving into next year, what happens at the state capitol in Austin will be a key focus for Brenham ISD.  Gillentine is hopeful that legislators are able to deliver increases in school funding.

Gillentine plans to continue expanding community partnerships recently put into place, like the ambassador program, Wellness Wednesday, and a green chord program where students can earn a green chord at graduation for the number of volunteer hours they have contributed.

Gillentine joined Brenham ISD in 2021 as assistant superintendent for administrative services.  He was named the district’s acting superintendent in October 2023 and was officially hired as superintendent in March.