On Sunday, May 24, I had the privilege to shake the hand of more than 1,570 BISD seniors as they received their high school diplomas. I always look forward to graduation day. It is one of the highlights of each school year to be among the first to congratulate these young adults as they begin a new chapter in their lives. I also want to take this opportunity to applaud our families. I know you are all very proud of your recent graduate.

Now that the school year is complete, work has begun across the District to address various aspects of the 2014 Bond. One component of the Bond is the building of a new West Birdville Elementary School. With more than 800 students plus staff, parents and community members in attendance, BISD celebrated the beginning of that project with the groundbreaking on May 27. It was an exciting day for all involved. The new West Birdville campus is scheduled to be complete for the 2016-17 school year. In addition to West Birdville construction, technology and security upgrades and other campus renovation projects will be actively underway this summer.

Within the next 6–12 months, BISD will be breaking ground for the new North Richland Middle School and Birdville Elementary School. Architects have begun the development and design phase of these two schools.

To keep apprised of each project in the 2014 Bond, visit www.bisdbond14.net.

Over the next couple of weeks, BISD will receive the final STAAR results from the 2014-15 school year. Preliminary data shows continued academic improvement by our students. I am proud of how far our students and staff have come over the past four years and pledge that the District will remain focused on providing the necessary resources to continue in their education.

The summer will quickly be over, but I am confident, we will be ready when students return for the 2015-16 school year.

Have a wonderful summer!