Cleburne Chamber of Commerce
Celebrating successes of Cleburne ISD students
Brandi Hightower
Business Development bhightower @ ctot. com
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22 Community Life
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Robin Soto
Escrow Officer rsoto @ ctot. com
From record-setting fine arts accomplishments to expanding career training opportunities, Cleburne ISD Superintendent Coby Kirkpatrick highlighted a year of growth, achievement and community support during the district’ s annual State of the District luncheon hosted by the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce.
Kirkpatrick told attendees the district’ s success is driven by relationships and a strong community partnership focused on students.
“ We’ re here to celebrate you today,” he said.“ It takes a village to take care of our 7,000 kids that we impact every day.”
Kirkpatrick said 399 students graduated from Cleburne High School this year, including 19 students who earned associate degrees through a partnership with Hill College before receiving their high school diplomas.
“ When they walked the stage as high school graduates, they walked out as college juniors,” Kirkpatrick said.“ Quite an accomplishment.”
The district also celebrated 57 graduates from TEAM School, which serves students with alternative educational paths.
Career and technical education programs were a major focus of the presentation. CISD was named a CTAT District of Distinction for the second consecutive year, and 95 % of students are on track to meet college, career and military readiness standards.
“ We are preparing students for what happens after graduation,” he said.
The district’ s fine arts programs also earned statewide recognition. The Golden Pride marching band won regional championships, the winter guard captured a state title and Cleburne High School became the first school in Texas to send students to the Jimmy Awards three consecutive years.
Athletics also saw success this year, including playoff appearances in volleyball, softball and baseball, along with numerous regional and state qualifiers. Baseball coach Ross Taylor— who is retiring this year— earned his 800th career victory during the season. Beyond extracurriculars, Kirkpatrick emphasized the district’ s academic growth. Seven campuses earned A or B accountability ratings, and district officials hope to have even more next year.
Kirkpatrick said the district has seen improvements in academics and discipline since the policy began.
The district also announced plans to launch the Hive, a virtual learning option for juniors and seniors this fall, allowing students to complete core coursework online while remaining involved in on-campus extracurricular programs. The district also recognized community
Rosa Huerta
Escrow Assistant rhuerta @ ctot. com
MANAGING ENERGY
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partners through its Champion of the Year awards. First Financial Bank received the districtwide Champion of the Year honor for supporting student recognition programs and volunteering at campus events.
FFB was nominated by Cooke Elementary School for their outstanding support and partnership throughout the year.
“ First Financial Bank has been an outstanding partner to Cooke Elementary this year, consistently demonstrating a genuine commitment to supporting their students and school community through their generous donation of the Growth Award yard signs,” CISD Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Mark McClure said.“ They help celebrate and recognize students who make significant academic and personal growth. The recognition aligns directly with the campus mission and power today, successful tomorrow.”
In addition to their financial support, FFB has given their time by volunteering at key campus events, including the winter festival, helping create meaningful experiences for students and families.
Julie Colwick, DDS, MS
Certified, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
Taylor Rotto, DDS, MSD Candidate Certified, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
817-645-8688 841 N. NolanRiver Rd. Cleburne, TX76033
ColwickPediatricDentistry. com