June 18, 2025
After 37 years of service in public education, Barry Edwards, Superintendent of Bastrop ISD, has announced his retirement. Edwards has dedicated 17 years to Bastrop ISD, with the last seven spent leading the district as superintendent. The Bastrop ISD Board of Trustees formally accepted his retirement during the June 17 school board meeting.
“It has truly been the honor of a lifetime,” Edwards shared in a message to Bastrop ISD staff. “From my first classroom in El Paso to my years in Bastrop ISD, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside passionate educators, dedicated families, and inspiring students. I will always be grateful for the trust and support this community has shown me.”
Throughout Edwards time as superintendent, Bastrop ISD has experienced significant growth, including a 19% increase in student enrollment. During his tenure, the district expanded student access to technology and the internet, opened the BISD Family Resource Center and Health Clinic, and transitioned from half-day to full-day pre-kindergarten. The community also approved two transformative bond elections in 2021 and 2023, which brought widespread facility improvements and paved the way for four new elementary schools, two new middle schools, classroom expansions, and upgraded learning environments across the district.
“Mr. Edwards has led Bastrop ISD with integrity, heart, and a deep commitment to our students and staff,” said Ashley Mutschink, President of the BISD Board of Trustees. “On behalf of the Board, I want to thank him for his service and wish him and his family the very best in this next chapter.”
Edwards began his career as a teacher in El Paso, Texas, and served as a principal in Socorro and Ysleta Independent School Districts. He built a reputation as an advocate for children, and his bilingual fluency in Spanish and English allowed him to connect with the diverse families he served.
“Bastrop ISD will always hold a special place in my heart,” Edwards said. “I leave this role confident in the strength of this district and in its current leadership, and filled with hope for a bright future ahead.”
Although stepping away from his professional role, Edwards has emphasized his continued belief in the power of public education to change lives. He looks forward to spending more time with his wife, Merridith, their daughters and sons-in-law, and their grandson. The family is also eagerly anticipating the arrival of two more grandchildren in December.
In the coming months, the Bastrop ISD Board of Trustees will work closely with the community to identify the district’s next superintendent. The transition plan includes naming an interim superintendent to take over the leadership of district operations and serve throughout the search process, selecting a search firm, and gathering input from students, staff, and community members. Bastrop ISD will keep our community informed and involved with opportunities for engagement as the superintendent search moves forward.
