5 Key Facts About Carolyn G. Bukhair Elementary: The RISD School Making Headlines In 2025

Contents

Carolyn G. Bukhair Elementary School, a cornerstone of the Richardson Independent School District (RISD) in Dallas, Texas, is currently undergoing a period of significant positive transformation and gaining statewide recognition, with its leadership receiving top honors for the 2024-2025 school year. As of this current date in December 2025, the school is being highlighted not just for its academic programs but for the exceptional dedication of its principal, a testament to the community's focus on scholar growth and well-rounded education.

Located at 13900 Maham Road, Bukhair Elementary serves students from Pre-Kindergarten (PK) through 6th grade, focusing on a holistic approach that prioritizes academics, behavior, and social-emotional intelligence. The school's commitment to creating a nurturing environment where every student can thrive is directly linked to the enduring legacy of its namesake, a prominent figure in Texas education.

The Enduring Legacy of Dr. Carolyn G. Bukhair

The elementary school is named in honor of Dr. Carolyn G. Bukhair, a highly respected and influential educator whose career was dedicated to the students and families of the Richardson Independent School District (RISD).

  • Full Name: Dr. Carolyn G. Bukhair
  • Primary Role: Superintendent of the Richardson Independent School District (RISD)
  • Total Years in Education: 36 years
  • Years with RISD: 29 years
  • Tenure as Superintendent: Served for eight years in the top leadership position before her initial retirement in 2004.
  • Post-Retirement Service: Dr. Bukhair was later called upon to return to the district to serve as an interim superintendent, demonstrating the high level of trust and respect she commanded within the RISD community and among the board of trustees.
  • Impact: Her long-standing commitment to educational excellence and her tenure as superintendent solidified her status as a monumental figure, making the naming of an elementary school in her honor a fitting tribute to her decades of service to Dallas-area students.

2025 Recognition and Leadership Excellence

The most current and compelling news surrounding Carolyn G. Bukhair Elementary centers on its dynamic leadership, which has garnered significant statewide recognition for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Principal Dr. Anabel Ruiz: A Texas Finalist

Dr. Anabel Ruiz, the dedicated Principal of Bukhair Elementary, was recently selected as a statewide Texas finalist for the prestigious H-E-B Excellence in Education Principal Award. This honor is one of the highest accolades an elementary school principal in Texas can receive, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the school, the Richardson ISD, and the broader educational community. Dr. Ruiz is currently in her fifth year at CBE and her tenth year in school leadership, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for scholar growth to the campus.

Furthermore, Dr. Ruiz was also named the RISD Elementary Principal of the Year for the 2024-2025 school year. This dual recognition highlights the success of her leadership philosophy, which emphasizes a supportive and high-expectations culture for both students and staff. Her focus on improving academic outcomes while nurturing social-emotional intelligence has been a driving force behind the school's recent progress.

This achievement is a major source of pride for the CBE community and signals a positive trajectory for the school's standing within the Richardson Independent School District.

Academic Focus and Specialized Programs (ACE & Co-Curricular)

Carolyn G. Bukhair Elementary is not content with traditional educational models. The school is part of a focused initiative to accelerate student achievement through targeted programs and a well-rounded curriculum.

The Accelerating Campus Excellence (ACE) Program

Bukhair Elementary has been linked to the Accelerating Campus Excellence (ACE) program, a Texas Education Agency (TEA) model designed to rapidly improve academic performance at schools needing intervention. The ACE model involves strategic staffing, extended learning time, and a culture of high expectations. While the program's specifics can evolve, the core philosophy—using specific metrics to evaluate progress and drive significant growth—remains central to the school's mission.

Curriculum and Co-Curricular Offerings

The school is committed to providing a well-rounded education that extends beyond core subjects. CBE offers diverse co-curricular activities and programs designed to foster creativity and exploration. Key educational entities and programs utilized at the campus include:

  • Xplore!: A program that likely provides enrichment opportunities or after-school activities, fostering interests outside the standard curriculum.
  • Library Resources: A strong emphasis on literacy and reading, supported by dedicated library programs.
  • Digital Learning Platforms: The integration of modern educational tools like Schoology and Seesaw to facilitate blended learning, communication, and student portfolio management.
  • PTA and Volunteer Programs: An active Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and robust volunteer network that provides critical support for school activities and classroom needs.
  • Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): A dedicated focus on behavior and social-emotional intelligence ensures students develop the critical life skills necessary for success both in and out of the classroom.

School Profile and Performance Metrics

Understanding the school's performance requires looking at its current demographics and academic metrics. Carolyn G. Bukhair Elementary serves a diverse body of students, which is a strength of the Dallas area and the Richardson ISD.

Key Statistics (2023-2024 School Year):

  • Location: Dallas, TX 75240
  • School District: Richardson Independent School District (RISD)
  • Grades Served: PK-6
  • Enrollment: Approximately 658 students
  • Student-Teacher Ratio: Approximately 16:1

Academic Performance:

The school's performance metrics are mixed, reflecting the challenges and opportunities for growth in a diverse urban environment. While some rating systems have given the school a "C+" or placed it in a lower quartile of Texas elementary schools, the Richardson ISD has worked to maintain an overall positive rating for the campus.

  • State Test Scores: Recent state test scores indicate that approximately 27% of students are proficient in math.
  • Growth Focus: The school’s stated number one priority is "Scholar growth," indicating an aggressive focus on improving these metrics year-over-year, especially in closing achievement gaps.
  • Accountability Ratings: District leaders are continually presenting updates on student performance and previewing upcoming accountability ratings (such as the anticipated 2025 ratings), demonstrating a commitment to transparency and continuous improvement.

Community and Parental Involvement

A vital part of the CBE ecosystem is the strong connection between the school and its community, particularly through active parental involvement.

The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) at Carolyn G. Bukhair Elementary is instrumental in bridging the gap between home and school. The PTA regularly organizes events, supports teacher initiatives, and helps fund essential resources. This partnership is crucial for reinforcing the school's core values of academic and social-emotional growth outside of instructional hours.

Furthermore, the school utilizes platforms like Peachjar Flyers to ensure clear and consistent communication with families about events, programs, and opportunities for volunteering. The high student-to-teacher ratio (16:1) also allows for more personalized attention and stronger relationships between educators and families, contributing to the overall success of the students.

In summary, Carolyn G. Bukhair Elementary is a school deeply rooted in the legacy of Dr. Carolyn G. Bukhair and currently propelled by the award-winning leadership of Principal Dr. Anabel Ruiz. Its ongoing commitment to a well-rounded education, specialized programs, and community involvement positions it as a key institution within the Richardson Independent School District, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of scholars in North Dallas.

5 Key Facts About Carolyn G. Bukhair Elementary: The RISD School Making Headlines in 2025
carolyn g bukhair elementary
carolyn g bukhair elementary

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