Documenters: Burleson ISD fetes end of year, with $1.9 million in teacher bonuses

A total 234 Burleson ISD teachers received $1.9 million in performance-based bonuses paid by the state under its Teacher Incentive Allotment program, the district told trustees at their May 12 meeting.

Burleson also has been newly designated as a Texas Education Agency Student Learning Objectives Model District, highlighting its leadership in instructional innovation.

All 18 Burleson campuses passed TEA random intruder audits with zero findings, and the district’s Emergency Operations Plan received TEA approval, the district told trustees. New security upgrades, including camera and vape detection systems, are being implemented across schools.

The meeting was standing-room only. Attendees filled the small waiting area, with additional people gathered outside the building. Community turnout demonstrated high engagement, particularly among families of students being recognized.

— Nicole Bomar

Documenter name: Nicole Bomar

Agency: Burleson Independent School District Board

Date: May 12, 2025

See more about this meeting at Documenters.org

RECOGNITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS

Student Achievements

Powerlifting Teams Dominate

The Centennial girls’ powerlifting team won all three invitational meets, with 15 girls advancing to regional competition and then placing third at the state contest.

Twelve of the 13 girls placed first or second in their respective weight classes.

The boys’ team sent six lifters to regionals and state, with one athlete breaking a school record set in 1975, bench pressing 475 pounds.

SkillsUSA Team

Archery Team

Several athletes were honored as all-state archers, continuing a strong tradition of marksmanship and precision.

Teacher of the Year Awards

Ashley Arnold — Elementary Teacher of the Year
Recognized for her creativity and student-centered teaching at Norwood Environmental Science Academy. A highlight included transforming her entire classroom into an immersive “Alice in Wonderland” experience to wrap up a reading unit, bringing magic and excitement to her lessons.

Kristina Shawky — Secondary Teacher of the Year
Shawky, a teacher at Burleson Collegiate High School, is an 8th-degree black belt who opened a martial arts academy at just 19. She was celebrated for putting students first and inspiring those around her with her discipline, compassion and leadership in and beyond the classroom.

Both educators received glowing remarks from students, peers and administrators who praised their dedication and deep investment in student growth.

Instructional Updates and Academic Leadership

Teacher Incentive Allotments
Burleson’s Teacher Incentive Allotments ranged between $3,000 to $16,000 per teacher. Total award value: $1,866,211.

Innovative Courses Approved
Nineteen new courses will launch in the 2025-26 school year, focusing on emerging technologies and career readiness. Curriculum proposals aligned with workforce demand, student interest and TEA innovation grants.

Student Learning Objectives (SLO) District Designation
Burleson ISD was chosen as one of only two districts in Texas to serve as an SLO Model District, making it a leader in academic performance tracking and instructional frameworks statewide.

Safety and Facilities

TEA Intruder Audits
All 18 BISD campuses passed their TEA Random Intruder Detection Audits with no findings, validating the district’s proactive safety measures.

Burleson Emergency Operations Plan Approved
The district’s Emergency Operations Plan received full TEA approval.

Facility Upgrades
Ongoing camera system upgrades and vape sensor installations are being implemented districtwide to enhance safety and student accountability.

Next Meeting: Monday, July 22, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.
Board Docs Agenda Archive

If you believe anything in these notes is inaccurate, please email us at [email protected] with “Correction Request” in the subject line.

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