Education in Bastrop, Texas
The historic City of Bastrop provides a variety of educational choices for all ages and academic styles. The Bastrop Independent School District (BISD) consists of eight elementary schools, two intermediate schools, two middle schools, four high schools, and two alternative learning facilities.
BISD maintains high expectations and a complete commitment to investing time, energy, talent, and expertise toward each student. Beginning in 5th grade, students have the opportunity to enroll in Pre-advanced Placement Programming. Focusing on college preparation at the secondary level, students can enroll in rigorous Advanced Placement and dual credit programs. BISD boasts strong fine arts, robotics, and athletics programs, which help to create a well-rounded academic experience.
The Bastrop Independent School District is growing so quickly that they’re already searching for land to build their ninth and tenth elementary schools. With more than 12,000 students in the district already, school leadership anticipates a 3.5% increase in student population each year. BISD also plans to allocate some bond money for repairing and updating existing schools in the district.
Career and Technical Education
BISD is proud to offer students Career and Technical Education (CTE). CTE prepares youth for a wide range of high-wage, high-skill, high-demand careers through cutting-edge, rigorous, and relevant course curricula and experiences. Students can choose one of fourteen paths of study, including Agricultural Engineering, Business Management, and Law Enforcement. Once a program is completed, students can sit for an Industry-Based Certification exam.
Work-Based Learning
Bastrop County high school students are welcome to participate in work-based learning programs. Depending on the school’s unique offerings, here are some programs students can enroll in:
Mentorships
11th and 12th graders are paired for in-person or virtual mentorships with an adult who works in an area of interest to the student. Six weeks of meetings are outlined in the mentorship handbook with topics such as a day in the life, education requirements, and Networking.
Internships
Students can participate in paid internships in the summer between 11th and 12th grade.
Clinical Rotations
Health Science students shadow multiple departments in hospitals and clinics.
Coursework - Practicum & Career Preparation
Students participate in school-day paid and unpaid internships within their chosen field.
Dual Credit Programs
To fast-track their college degree, high school students can enroll in dual credit classes that can be applied to their future college program. BISD offers a wide range of options for students to gain college credits in high school, even allowing high schoolers to earn an associate’s degree by their graduation.
Career Academy
Automotive Technology, Level 1 Certificate
PTECH
Pharmacology, Level 1 Certificate
Advanced Manufacturing, Level 1 Certificate
ECHS
General Studies, Associate Degree
Science, Associate Degree
Education, Associate Degree
Social Work, Associate Degree
Pre Health Science, Associate Degree
Dual Credit - ACC
Students at BHS and CCHS may participate in Dual Credit courses within the school day or
outside of school hours. Campus-based courses are offered in English and History.
OnRamps
Students at BHS, CCHS, and CRCA may participate in Dual Credit courses within the school
day through the University of Texas in Science and Math.
Alternative Learning
In addition, the district offers two alternative learning facilities to guide students on their career paths and promote positive relationships. Genesis High School extends high school degree programs to its students with smaller class sizes and an individualized pace of learning. Gateway is a D.A.E.P. School that provides a safe and structured learning environment so students can return to their home campus. Gateway students work towards building positive relationship skills while improving their academic skills. There are many resources to ensure success including home campus teachers, school technology, counselors, and much more.
With the implementation of House Bill 5 (HB 5) passed by the Texas Legislature in 2013, Bastrop ISD has created a number of Career Pathways for students, including automotive, agriculture, business, construction, culinary arts, health sciences, and STEM-based programs. In the future, EMT, AWS welding, and AutoCAD certifications will also be offered.
