Winter 2014
Birkes Elementary is now celebrating 12 years in Cy-Fair ISD, essentially a graduating senior. So how far have the Bulldogs come? “We’re a really big school, and we do big really well,” says principal Carla Brosnahan, who opened the school in 2003. “Rezoning has come up several times, but nobody wants to go.” The school has resorted to eight portable buildings, adding 16 classrooms, which has mollified their growth so far. Brosnahan credits her dedicated, professional staff, coupled with good support from the parents and community, for this devotion. It’s a winning combination at any size school.
Birkes Elementary was named for Barbara Warren Birkes, who retired in 1994 after 35 years in education, 30 of them in Cy-Fair ISD schools. She still visits Birkes and is active with the Cy-Fair Education Foundation.
Unique Programs
With size comes the ability to offer unique programs that can serve a larger area effectively. The deaf education program is one of two cooperatives that assist other districts, such Spring Branch and Katy. An audiologist and testing booth, plus deaf education teachers, make a valuable contribution. A high special education population as well as adaptive behavior students also benefit from the broad programs available.
A great school comes from respecting education and students. Brosnahan says, “I always wanted to be a teacher, and I loved it.” Her background in educational counseling and psychology led her to become an assistant principal within a few years at Lieder Elementary. There, she was mentored by stalwart educator Mrs. Sheridan, who worked for nearly four decades in the system. Brosnahan has been serving as principal for 20 years. Each morning, she still greets the children as they arrive, and trips to her office are more often for good behavior than bad.
High Standards
The professional climate and qualified staff at Birkes create a high standard, where parents don’t grapple with putting their children in one classroom over another. Brosnahan says that the teachers care for and adore the kids, and all decisions are made with the students’ best interests in mind. Parents at Birkes don’t micromanage their children’s time either, yet chip in to help at school as needed.
Birkes students have achieved high standards, measured through STAR testing. Four state distinctions also have been earned for student achievement, progress, closing performance gaps, and postsecondary readiness. Brosnahan believes it is because Birkes delivers the curriculum in the best and most relevant way.
Community Outreach
Community involvement through scouting and other organizations is encouraged. Projects, like garden beautification, Teddy Bears for Hospice, and collecting old cell phones to save the apes, for which Birkes won 3rd place, keep students looking outward. The Bulldogs’ marquee also frequently bears messages that share the positive things happening on campus.
Brosnahan’s advice to other educators entering a new school is to take time to learn the environment, connect, and listen, applying an attitude that problems can be solved. She also suggests keeping a blazer on the back of your door to stay professional in a pinch. “The highest accomplishment is that Birkes is a happy place,” she says, “and kids want to go to school and achieve.”
Learn more: www.birkes.cfisd.net