Family Connects
Bi-weekly e-newsletter from Bastrop ISD
January 8, 2025
Upcoming Dates & Events
January 15: Genesis HS Fall Graduation
January 20: Student/Staff Holiday (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
January 21: BISD Board of Trustees Meeting, PAC, 5:30 pm
February 14: Student Holiday/Staff Development
February 17: Student/Staff Holiday
February 18: BISD Board of Trustees Meeting, PAC, 5:30 pm
BISD Open and on Regular Schedule January 9 and 10
Bastrop ISD will remain open and on a regular schedule on Thursday and Friday, January 9 and 10, as temperatures in our area are not expected to drop below freezing until the weekend.
As always, we will continually monitor weather conditions. If any changes become necessary due to weather, we’ll share updates with our families and community through email, text, and phone calls, as well as on the District website and social media.
Now is a great time to double-check that your Skyward Family Access account has accurate contact information. This ensures you won't miss any important alerts or updates. Click here to check your account.
January Appreciation Days
January is School Board Recognition Month
This month, we are honored to recognize and celebrate the incredible contributions of our seven dedicated board members!
These leaders give their time, energy, and expertise to ensure our school district thrives. Their commitment to students, teachers, and the entire community is unmatched, and we are truly grateful for their service.
Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
On January 9, we have a special opportunity to honor the dedicated individuals who serve and protect our community—National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. This is a time for all of us to recognize the vital role that law enforcement officers play in ensuring the safety and security of our schools, students, and families.
We are proud to have our own team of officers right here in the Bastrop ISD Police Department, who work tirelessly every day to create a safe and positive environment for our students and staff. From ensuring campus safety to building positive relationships with our students, the members of the BISD Police Department are always ready to go above and beyond in their commitment to our school community.
Thank you to the Bastrop ISD Police Department for your continued support in keeping our schools and community safe!
Bastrop ISD News
Chris Lairscey named Director of Digital Learning & Library Services
Chris Lairscey has been named the Director of Digital Learning & Library Services for Bastrop ISD. In this role, he will lead the District’s digital learning initiatives, focusing on the successful integration of technology into instruction to enhance teaching and learning. He will also work to elevate the District’s library spaces with a focus on future-ready opportunities for BISD students.
“I am so excited to contribute in new ways to the mission and vision of Bastrop ISD,” said Lairscey. “I will operate with our students' future as my focus as we continue to enhance and innovate our classroom and library practices across the district. The Bastrop ISD family and community has been overwhelmingly supportive, and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to make an impact in this new role.”
Jared Shaw Named Athletic Coordinator and Head Football Coach at Cedar Creek High School
Jared Shaw has been selected as Cedar Creek High School’s new athletic coordinator and head football coach. With more than ten years of experience as a teacher and coach, Shaw brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and a passion for student-athlete success.
“My family and I are thrilled to join the Cedar Creek campus and community,” said Shaw. “Our goal is to leverage athletics as a powerful tool to equip student-athletes with the skills they need to succeed in all areas of life. We aim to lead by example, with a foundation built on the core values of Discipline, Effort, Toughness, and Honor. Beyond the playing field, we are dedicated to fostering a sense of pride, teamwork, and responsibility that extends into the classroom and throughout the community. Together, we will build a program that not only excels at a high level but also shapes well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges that life presents.”
Community Education Classes Offered for all Ages
Current Classes
“I Voted” and “Future Voter” Sticker Design Contest
The Bastrop County Elections Department is holding Bastrop County’s second “I Voted” and “Future Voter” sticker design contest. The contest is open to all Bastrop County students, K-12. The winning designs will be used as the official “I Voted” and “Future Voter” sticker in the 2025-2026 Election cycle. The Deadline to submit a design is Friday, January 17, 2025, at 5 pm.
Attendance Matters
Make Every Day Count! Attendance Contest Winners for December
Students pictured below all had perfect attendance! Way to go students!
Colony Oaks Elementary
Bastrop Intermediate School
Colorado River Collegiate Academy
Bastrop ISD has multiple opportunities available for parents and the community to volunteer and mentor in our schools. Visit our website at www.bisdtx.org/volunteer to learn more and complete the required application.
A volunteer application must be completed and approved if you plan to attend school field trips with your student.
Mentor Spotlight
"Alicia Vasquez, our very loved Lost Pines Elementary PTA Vice President. Alicia is not only a PTA member but she is also a Mentor and Cub Scout Leader. Ever since she joined PTA, she has brought more color and joy to LPE! Her creative ideas and crafts keep the students at Lost Pines Elementary always smiling. We love her very much!"
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Family Connects is Bastrop ISD's bi-weekly e-newsletter featuring District news, announcements, resources and more! View past editions at www.bisdtx.org/FamilyConnects.