BISD’s Craft receives national recognition

The top educator at the Boerne Independent School District is now a “Superintendent to Watch” according to the National School Public Relations Association.

Boerne ISD Superintendent Kristin Craft is among 30 first-time school leaders recognized nationwide by NSPRA and only one of four from Texas.

Honorees have fewer than five years of experience as superintendents and demonstrate “dynamic, fast-paced leadership with strong communication at its core,” according to a release.

In addition, “They use communication technology in innovative and effective ways to engage and inform their school communities and to expand two-way communication and outreach efforts,” the announcement noted.

Craft became Boerne ISD superintendent in January 2024.

She brings “a communication- centered leadership style grounded in collaboration, transparency and shared ownership,” according to a submitted nomination package.

Her approach is built on the belief “people support what they help create,” the statement added.

“Since her hiring in January 2024, Dr. Craft has worked with our board to implement the most consistent, innovative and transparent communication practices we have ever experienced,” said Kristi Schmidt, BISD board president.

As part of her first 100 days, Craft led a push to renew the district’s core values by engaging with the community, teachers, students and staff, officials said.

They said the values, now used across district operations, are:

• “Every Child, Every Day”

• “Commitment to Service”

• “Respectful Relationships”

• “Excellence Through Integrity” 

The district’s nomination package highlighted Craft’s “ highly visible, hands-on approach.”

Not long after starting with Boerne ISD, she conducted “listen and learn” sessions with community members, gathering insights that shaped a three-year district roadmap, officials said. The plan is into its second year.

District officials said Craft continues to make connections with students and families. She visited all JumpStart campuses as children prepared for kindergarten, hosted a back-toschool breakfast honoring first responders, rode buses during the first week of school and visited every campus to help students find classrooms and open car doors.