Cleburne Community Info & Chamber Directory 2023 | Page 22

EDUCATION

CLEBURNE ISD

With a heritage that dates back to its first graduate in 1892 , Cleburne ISD remains committed to its mission to provide relevant and rigorous learning for today ’ s students — who are the leaders of tomorrow . Cleburne High School will be celebrating its 131st graduating class in ceremonies the evening of May 14 at Texas Christian University .
Cleburne continues to set new records in enrollment with more than 7,200 students , reflecting the impact of new housing construction and its classification as a high-growth district .
In 2023-24 , new grade configurations will be implemented in providing students with optimum opportunities for learning , social / emotional development and stable long-term school connections--and in anticipation of continued growth .
Revised grade alignments will have elementary campuses serving prekindergarten through fourth . Lowell Smith , Jr . Intermediate School will be utilized as the fifth-sixth grade campus , allowing for earlier student engagement in fine arts and athletics , with introduction and exploration beginning in the fifth grade . A . D . Wheat Middle School will house the district ’ s seventh and eighth grades . Cleburne High School serves grades 9-12 , with the Cleburne TEAM High School also located on the campus .
Wheat is in the final phases of major renovation and expansion , which will be completed before the start of the new school year . Students now have full access to renovated science labs , an expanded Lifeskills area , robotics and skills for living learning spaces , along with 34 additional classrooms . Final projects include a storm shelter which will also serve as a gymnasium , new weight room , enclosed courtyard and a transformed library / media center .
May 2021 bond funds also provided for additions and upgrades at the Lowell Smith campus , with final phases to be addressed in the summer . Renovations to the stage , backstage and auditorium of the Don Smith Performing Arts Center at Cleburne High School are well underway .
Digital classrooms and mobile devices for use at school and home for students in all grade levels reflect the ongoing mission to meet and enhance the instructional technology needs of 21st century learners . Innovative program initiatives range from Two-Way Dual Language in English and Spanish beginning in kindergarten and a concerted focus on STEM and robotics starting in the fourth grade , on through to an Advanced Academics program for grades 6-12 . This includes opportunities to earn college credit while in high school through partnerships with Hill College and the University of Texas ’ OnRamps project , as well as a robust AP program . The AVID academic support program prepares students for college eligibility and success .
The opening of the new Cleburne High School academic campus in 2019 , coupled with renovated and expanded fine arts and Career and Technical Education facilities , provides students access to a wide range of classes and programs , all under one roof .
Cleburne ’ s CTE program is highlighted by the availability of internships and industry-recognized certifications . From culinary arts student chefs operating the high school ’ s Sting Bistro to a Massachusetts Institute of Technology Fabrication Lab utilized by engineering students , Cleburne ’ s CTE program address career — and college — readiness , with pathways of study in 13 career clusters .
Opportunities at CHS also include the Navy National Defense Cadet Corps , a four-year program providing students with opportunities to learn and grow in leadership abilities , serve in their community , engage in skills competitions and broaden their understanding of the principles of military command and service in the armed forces .
For more information , visit c-isd . com .
22 Cleburne This is Texas