02 Jun 2024 Men of the Moment 2024: B.J. Burgess

“It is a privilege to work in a district that puts students first,” said B.J. Burgess, director of technology for Greenbrier Public Schools. Burgess should know: a part-time job while in high school piqued his interest in computers and networking, which led him to study them in college and graduate school. Today, he is completing two decades with the district, including one as director of technology.

“We provide technology services to support the district’s core functions, innovative programs and instruction that positively impacts all of our students,” he said. “We also employ some students every year, and it’s a pleasure to see them further their careers and find success after starting what is usually their first job here in our technology department.”

Burgess and his wife, Misty, who teaches business education at Greenbrier High School, have three children, Will, Allison and Callie, all of whom attend Greenbrier schools. The family attends Springhill Baptist Church and spends their free time hiking. Burgess considers one of the best things about working at his alma mater is being close to his children.

“I am so proud of my family,” he said. “God has blessed us with children who are turning out to be awesome people, and I’m glad they get to grow up in the same community and school Misty and I did. Misty is a rock star at home and at work, and I couldn’t do it without her by my side.”

Another accomplishment Burgess is most proud of is the district being one of four Certified Education Technology Leaders (CETL) in Arkansas. CETL is a national certification program for school technology leaders.

“I am the current vice president/president-elect for this group dedicated to professional growth and mentorship opportunities for school technology leaders,” Burgess explained. “I’m passionate about helping new or upcoming school technology leaders in Arkansas. I wouldn’t have the career I have today without the support of Linda Lewis, Mike Mertens and Scott Spainhour. I urge people to remember that others recognize work ethic and appreciate hard work in any area—be it school, life or business.”

Contact B.J. at [email protected].