After three-plus decades in education, Dripping Springs High Principal Joe Burns is opting to retire at the end of the school year, according to a press release.
Burns, who has served as the Dripping Springs High principal since 2012, had previously worked as DSISD’s Curriculum Coordinator for two years. He started his career in DSISD as a counselor, then assistant principal at Dripping Springs High.
During Burns’ tenure, Dripping Springs High has expanded opportunities for students during a time of extensive enrollment growth, according to the release.
That includes introducing a dual enrollment program in 2013, which has grown to include 14 Austin Community College courses and seven OnRamps courses with the University of Texas.
College and Career Academies were created and courses have been added in recent years that provide students with real-life skills in areas such as real estate, health science, and engineering. The Cornerstone Experience for students has evolved into an opportunity for students to showcase talents, according to the release.
Dozens of student organizations have been created, allowing students to pursue their personal interests. Students and faculty members have received numerous statewide recognitions, including state championships as well as national honors.
“I am very excited about the 2018-19 school year and could not be more proud of our students’ and staff members’ accomplishments thus far,” said Burns in an email to parents. “We have many more goals to achieve and I am confident our students and staff will strive to make the 2018-19 school year one for the record books.”
DSISD Superintendent Bruce Gearing said Burns has provided “outstanding, student-centered leadership.”
“He has built strong relationships with staff and students, and has empowered those around him to develop their potential,” Gearing said. “We are grateful to him for his years of service and are committed to finding a new principal who will continue his team’s outstanding work.”
Burns’ 31 years in education included multiple administrative and teaching positions in Uvalde ISD.
The position will be posted in December and the process to hire a new principal will begin after the first of the year.
