Brownwood students will be returning to school on Wednesday, August 17, and Brownwood High School (BHS) prepares for a new year of academic and athletic excellence. With an ever-expanding range of classes, dual credit/enrollment opportunities, and professional certification offerings, BHS students have more choices than ever as they prepare for life after graduation.
Lindsay Smith heads up the leadership team at the school and this will be her third year serving as principal. Smith’s personal and family connections to Brownwood strengthen her school spirit. “My husband graduated from BHS and is a Brownwood native,” said Smith. “I have two kids at Woodland Heights Elementary and I am so glad to live in such a wonderful community.” Smith’s husband, Mike, a Brown County District Court Judge, is a former Brownwood Lion who was inducted into the Gordon Wood Hall of Champions in 2021.
Two assistant principals, Mr. Andy Gill and Ms. Ginger Ketcher, help keep the school running smoothly. “We are a team, and I am grateful that support staff, teachers, and administrators work so well together,” Smith said. “Everyone at BHS plays an important part in student success. We are all here to help, educate, and serve the Brownwood community.”
From Computer Science and Audio/Visual Production, to Culinary Arts, Welding, Fine-Arts and more, students have an opportunity to explore, learn, and find their passion. Notable industry-based certifications include Certified Nurse Aide/Assistance (CNA), Pharmacy Technician, Adobe Certifications, Commercial Drone Pilots License, and Mechatronics Programs. A full list of offerings can be found on page 3 of the Back to School ROAR magazine (https://www.brownwoodisd.org/backtoschool).
Home to the Brownwood Lions and Lady Lions, BHS also provides plenty of athletic opportunities for students and the community to enjoy. From the bright Friday night lights at Gordon Wood Stadium for home football games to the thrill of basketball, volleyball, tennis, track, cross country, powerlifting, golf, baseball, softball, and soccer games, the Brownwood Lion and Lady Lion teams and coaches provide a top-notch athletic program under Athletic Director, Sammy Burnett.
BHS ensures students not only have a variety of athletic and academic choices, but that students are guided through their four years on campus with the help and care of an excellent counseling program. The school employs four counselors that remain on hand as a resource for students seeking guidance in everything from college and career readiness to mental health. Parents and students can contact counselors by calling the school or visiting https://www.brownwoodisd.org/counseling.
In August, parents and students will have a few opportunities to visit the campus, meet with staff, and learn about all BHS has to offer. “We will continue with year two of our Freshman Fish Camp,” noted Smith. “We had such a great response from parents and ninth grade students last year.” The Freshman Fish Camp is scheduled for August 10 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at BHS (2100 Slayden Street). “You do not want to miss this event,” said Smith. “While Fish Camp is intended for incoming ninth graders, anyone who is new to BHS is welcome to attend.” In addition, campus tours will be open to parents and students on Thursday, August 11, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
As new and returning students fill the halls of the high school this August they will be greeted with a caring staff and plenty of decisions as they grow through their final years in the Brownwood Independent School District (BISD). Brownwood High School remains one of the many reasons why BISD is truly a “District of Choice.”
“We have so much to offer and there is a place for everyone,” stated Smith. “We are blessed with great kids, parents, and an involved community that cares about our schools.”