After years of academic struggles, massive change is underway at the district this month, with new leadership and consolidated campuses.
connally isd
Texas education chief appoints former Waco ISD official to head Connally
The state of Texas has chosen a former Waco Independent School District administrator as superintendent to lead Connally ISD during its state takeover. Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath picked Josie Gutierrez to lead the 2,000-student district, citing her success in improving outcomes and strengthening teacher retention as former deputy superintendent and an assistant superintendent […]
Q&A with Andrew Kim: Connally ISD’s new state conservator sees a path to “excellence”
The veteran educator says more teacher development training, more instructional time and a change in expectations will turn around the struggling district.
Connally ISD cancels bond plans as it seeks to shrink its footprint
Connally ISD board of trustees called a $5.9 million bond election in February, then canceled it based on declining enrollment and the projected cost savings due to consolidating three elementary schools.
Connally ISD will consolidate elementary schools starting next school year
The Waco-area school district said declining enrollments necessitated the changes.
Connally ISD superintendent tells town hall crowd she will step down as the state takes over
The Texas Education Agency will replace Superintendent Jill Bottelberghe as it takes the reins of Connally ISD in coming months.
Connally ISD shares the demographic profile of school districts vulnerable to state takeovers
Inequality helps explain why many of the schools under intervention in Texas share nearly identical characteristics.
“Not everybody gets a hot breakfast and Mom taking them to school or putting them on the bus and giving them a kiss on the cheek,” said Jill Bottelberghe, Connally ISD superintendent.
Local school district demographics predict who goes to college. Look yours up here.
Midway, China Spring and Lorena students were about twice as likely to graduate college than peers in the economically disadvantaged Waco, La Vega and Connally ISDs, based on long-term data.
State appoints conservator over Connally, two other ISDs
“The work ahead will focus on partnering with district leadership to strengthen academics and keep Connally ISD students, teachers and staff at the center of every decision,” Kim said.
Connally ISD is among the latest state takeover targets. What can parents expect?
Connally ISD officials say a state conservator will likely begin work in January, but day-to-day changes aren’t expected until fall.

