On Valentine’s Day, love took on a deeper meaning at the second Annual Gala hosted by the Burnet CISD Education Foundation, a Mardi Gras-themed Love Story set at Wagon Springs Ranch.
The evening shimmered with celebration, but its heart beat strongest in a shared commitment to students and teachers across Burnet CISD.
From the opening notes by Gumbo Ya Ya to the table-to-table wonder sparked by magician and mentalist Frank Greer, the night balanced joy and purpose.
Guests laughed as Dale Whistler captured playful likenesses, while emcee Maggie Mayfield guided the program with warmth and ease.
Dinner rich with Louisiana flavor was catered by The Real New Orleans Restaurant, setting the tone for a true Mardi Gras celebration.
In his opening remarks, Damon Beierle, president of the foundation’s board, welcomed the community and reaffirmed the mission: to bring innovation into the classroom by trusting and empowering educators with bold ideas.
That mission came vividly to life during the Mission Moment.
Jill Castillo, eighthgrade assistant principal at Burnet Middle School, shared how a foundation grant allowed her to introduce innovative supports for students in ISS meeting students where they are and helping them succeed in new ways.
Counselor Haley Thomas followed with words that captured the spirit of the evening.
After receiving a grant to develop a yoga class for students, she reflected, “This is not only a financial gift, it is a powerful reminder that community is built when people choose to invest in the future generations.”
She spoke candidly about the importance of healthy coping strategies, noting that students benefit from positive outlets rather than “negative ways of management such as violence, self-harm, and a momentary bad choice that can affect their future.”
Thanks to the foundation, she said simply, “The grant awarded for the yoga center turned that vision into a reality.”
An Educator Moment spotlighted Elizabeth Stires, whose work with Life Skills students embodies compassion and creativity.
Later, Impact Speakers Mike Walzel and Jeff Copsetta from Burnet High School shared how foundation support translates into realworld opportunities for students.
The live and silent auctions raised critical funds for future grants and fresh ideas underscoring the power of a community that shows up.
As the night drew to a close, one message rang clear: there are countless visionary teachers in Burnet CISD who are just one opportunity away from creating something transformative.
Continued support ensures the foundation can say yes again and again to teachers with a heart to serve.
It was an evening where celebration met purpose, and generosity became action, people coming together to invest directly in Burnet’s teachers and students, and in the bright future they are building together.
