We are so excited to welcome you and your family to a new school year at Bryker Woods Elementary! Whether you are returning or joining us for the first time, you are an important part of a school community that values curiosity, connection, and meaningful learning.
Our theme this year is “Rooted Locally, Growing Globally.” It speaks to the strength we find in our relationships with one another, with our school, and with the broader community while also reflecting our commitment to growing global citizens.
As an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP) school—the first and only in Austin ISD—we are proud to offer an education that encourages students to think deeply, ask questions, and take action. Our theme reminds us that when students feel grounded and supported, they are empowered to reach outward with confidence, purpose, and a sense of responsibility to the world around them.
This kind of learning environment is only possible because of the incredible people who make up our staff. We are fortunate to have a team of dedicated educators who are passionate about guiding students to become active inquirers, and I am excited to welcome a few new additions to our Bryker Woods team this year:
- Meghan Buchanan - Assistant Principal
- Aimee Morales- Kindergarten Teacher
- Sarah Yarborough - First Grade Teacher
- Josephine Yi- Fourth Grade Teacher
- Grace Fremuth- Fifth Grade Teacher
- Claire McEnery- Spanish Teacher
Our counselor, Elizabeth Dainton, retired over the summer, but we are thrilled to welcome her back part-time. Leah Gilbert will be joining us as our other part-time counselor!
As we welcome new faces, we also acknowledge the changes that each new year brings. Over the summer, we said goodbye to several staff members who are beginning new chapters:
Kory Hoffman accepted a position in Hays ISD to be closer to his home in Kyle.
Ashley Yap will be teaching 5th grade at Casis Elementary.
Arielle Bickell is heading to Davis Elementary to teach 2nd grade.
Fabiola Gonzalez made the decision to take the year off to stay home with her beautiful baby boy.
Patricia Russell has re-retired.
Tori Garza has relocated to Nevada.
We are grateful for the time they spent as part of the Bryker Woods community and wish them all the best in their new endeavors.Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and your support. We look forward to a school year full of meaningful learning and growth—for our students and for our entire school community.
Here is to a wonderful 2025–2026 school year!
From Principal Hill