Mrs. Cheryl Burns earned a bachelor of science with a major in biology from the University of Houston. She earned a master’s degree in educational administration from Texas A&M University and earned her superintendent’s certification in 2008.
 
Mrs. Burns has enjoyed a successful career in public education spanning over 38 years. Mrs. Burns’ career includes middle school teacher and high school science teacher before stepping into leadership roles as an assistant principal, principal, curriculum director, and assistant superintendent. Her leadership has included instruction, accountability, strategic planning and continuous improvement efforts.
 
Mrs. Burns currently serves as a member of the UIL music regional executive board. She also serves on the Texas Association of Mid-Size Schools (TAMS) as a regional chairman and is a member of the Texas Council of Women School Executives. She continues to be active in the Texas Association of Rural Schools (TARS), where she serves on the Membership Committee, and the Texas Association of Community Schools (TACS).  Mrs. Burns began service, as an Ex-Officio Member, to the Smithville Chamber of Commerce Board in January of 2022, and is a member of the Smithville Noon Lions Club.
 
Mrs. Burns’ experience, leadership, and dedication to students continues to serve SISD students, staff, and the community as the Superintendent of SISD.  Her love of teaching has led her to encourage all students to be taught with the goal of learning to open doors to the future.  She believes in serving students, staff, parents, and the community.  
 
Mrs. Burns stated, “I am honored and humbled to be given the opportunity to lead Smithville ISD in the role as Superintendent. I continue to be loyal and committed to this district. I believe in innovation and believe that we must look for opportunities to prepare our students for every door we can open for them. It takes all of our stakeholders including staff, the Board of Trustees, parents, and community members to accomplish our goal of preparing our students for their future”.