Norwood's Ashley Arnold and BCHS's Christina Shockey named Burleson teachers of the year

The Burleson Independent School District (BISD) held a board meeting on May 12, 2025, where several key topics were discussed, including the recognition of outstanding student athletes and the announcement of the district's Teacher of the Year awards.

The meeting began with a presentation by coaches from Kerr and Nola Dunn schools, who highlighted the achievements of two student archers, Mason Ivy and Helen Christensen. Both students were recognized as second team Allstate recipients. Coach Pete shared insights into the nomination process for Allstate selections, noting that coaches vote on nominated athletes. He praised Mason for his dedication, stating that he consistently arrives early to help set up the archery range, demonstrating leadership and commitment to the team. Helen was commended for her reliability, as she stayed late after practices to assist with cleanup, showcasing her strong work ethic and support for her peers.

Following the recognition of the archers, the meeting shifted focus to the announcement of the BISD Teacher of the Year awards. Dr. Jimerson introduced Ashley Arnold, a third-grade teacher at Norwood, who was named the District Elementary Teacher of the Year. Colleagues praised her leadership, innovative teaching methods, and dedication to student success. Arnold was noted for creating engaging learning experiences, such as transforming her classroom into an Alice in Wonderland-themed environment to celebrate student achievements.

The meeting continued with the introduction of Christina Shockey, the Secondary Teacher of the Year. Shockey's unconventional journey to teaching was highlighted, including her experience as a martial arts instructor and her commitment to character development in her students. After taking time off to raise her children, she returned to education, quickly earning recognition for her teaching abilities. Her path included roles as a substitute teacher and a special education paraprofessional before becoming a full-time teacher.

The meeting concluded with a sense of pride in the accomplishments of both students and educators within the district. The recognition of Mason Ivy, Helen Christensen, Ashley Arnold, and Christina Shockey underscored BISD's commitment to fostering talent and excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities. The board expressed gratitude for the hard work and dedication of all involved, setting a positive tone for future initiatives and support for students and staff alike.