Dr. William Burrus Elementary School

Dr. William Burrus Elementary at Drakes Creek is a public PK–5 school in Hendersonville, Tennessee, operating under Sumner County Schools. Located at 1336 Drakes Creek Road, the school is STEM-designated and serves as an innovation hub for early learners. Burrus integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics across its core curriculum, supported by dedicated STEM labs, maker spaces, and project-based learning.

Academic instruction in reading, mathematics, social studies, and writing is enhanced by specials in art, music, physical education, and library. The school emphasizes differentiation, guided instruction, and intervention support for diverse learners. Burrus maintains strong family and community engagement through its PTO, business partnerships, and volunteer programs. Its mission is to cultivate curious, capable, and responsible citizens ready for the challenges ahead. The campus is equipped with modern classrooms, outdoor learning zones, secure facilities, and technologies that support both collaborative and individualized learning experiences.

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In 2025, Burrus enhanced its STEM infrastructure, adding new robotics kits and 3D printers to its maker labs.

The school recently hosted a STEM Showcase Night, where students presented design challenges and engineering prototypes to families and community partners.

Q1. Who is the school leader and how is leadership structured at Burrus?

A. The principal of Dr. William Burrus Elementary is Shannon Lyles. Leadership includes assistant administrators, grade-level leads, and instructional coaches who guide curriculum, teacher development, and school initiatives.

Q2. How does Burrus measure and support STEM learning progress?

A. The school uses performance rubrics, student portfolios, and project assessments to evaluate growth in STEM skills like design thinking, coding, and data analysis. Teachers scaffold challenges progressively and integrate cross-subject projects to reinforce concepts.

Q3. What community or business partnerships does Burrus maintain?

A. Burrus collaborates with local tech firms, universities, and service organizations to provide guest speakers, mentorship, sponsorships for STEM fairs, and donated resources like robotics kits and lab supplies.

Q4. How are extracurricular clubs and enrichment programs organized?

A. Students can join clubs such as robotics, coding, makerspace, art, and music. Enrichment occurs after school or during designated times; participation is voluntary and often led by staff or community volunteers.

Q5. How do families engage with Burrus and support student learning?

A. Parents are involved through PTO, volunteer reading programs, STEM night events, home-school challenges, and workshops. Communication channels include newsletters, digital portals, and family-teacher conferences to align support at home.