February 21, 2022
What a great time to be a Burton Panther!!!
Today is celebrated as Presidents Day and is a school holiday for Burton Independent School District.
Some reflections on one of what should be our greatest passions — public education. Hopes that the love of teaching, learning, and ensuring every student has the opportunity to grow and to reach their fullest potential is sustained. Parents, teachers, school board members, and other elected officials can usually find common ground by focusing on the role of public education in bringing communities together to build a better future for our kids and our state. We are still hopeful, despite the contentious discourse we so often hear in the news. Most Texans understand and appreciate the importance of their local school district and the educators working hard to support their community’s students. We are reminded that we can still agree on more than the headlines might suggest.
Teachers are the backbone of public education
First, the Charles Butt Foundation released the results of its annual survey on Texans’ attitudes toward public education. An important highlight and takeaway that resonated deeply is — namely, that Texans — especially public school parents — are broadly confident in our state’s teachers.
Second, at the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) Midwinter Conference, the most pressing matter being discussed was teacher resignations and the lack of a strong pipeline of new teachers from colleges of education. Every district in the state and nation is struggling to recruit and retain educators.
So…What we can all agree on
It is essential we start finding common ground. Amid all the contentious discourse on K-12 issues, no one should be surprised that many teachers are leaving the profession. Discussions on how to improve learning and instruction must start from a place where the work of educators is appreciated and respected, and where public education’s role in bringing people together to learn from one another is valued. Doing this will help our state become stronger and more unified. The process of thinking about where we might agree rather than disagree is a reminder that we can bring some balance to divisive conversations.
The potential of all Texas schoolchildren, especially when they have consistent, caring, and committed teachers in the classroom is beyond imaginable. Let’s all agree that nothing is more important to the future of our state, both economically and as a great place to live, than a strong public education system.
Follow Burton ISD activities on our website @ www.burtonisd.net, check out the Burton ISD app, and keep up with the latest happenings on the Burton ISD Facebook page and other social media venues.
The pride of the Burton Panthers is embedded in all of us whether we are a student, an alumni, a community member, a staff member and employee, a parent, board member and/or a proud supporter and in many cases all of the above. We love our Panthers and like to think that the culture we are providing in educating our students is a reason why parents want their children to attend Burton ISD. We value our school district and always put students first. We are prepared to Dream Big, Sparkle More, and Shine Bright as the Future is Now for the Burton Panthers in 2022!!! Have a blessed week and GO BIG RED!