CTE is at the heart of T-2-4!
A PASSION FOR LEARNING - A CAREER FOR LIFE
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January’s National Mentoring Month was a powerful reminder that each of us has the ability to create a positive ripple in the world—whether through mentoring, volunteering, or simple acts of kindness. In that spirit, we are honored to highlight the insights of a dedicated mentor whose commitment to supporting students embodies the profound impact we can all make.
Below, you’ll find Patty’s story as she reflects on her journey in SBISD. A heartfelt thank you to Patty for sharing her experiences with us, and to all our incredible mentors and volunteers for the invaluable role they play in shaping the future of our students and strengthening our community.
If you are interested in being a mentor or volunteer in SBISD, click here.
Since my family moved here when I was 12, I’ve always considered Spring Branch my home. My connection to Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) goes beyond being a student and later a teacher; it’s about being part of a larger, diverse community where we all share in the successes and challenges of our students.
Throughout my career as a teacher and counselor, and now as a volunteer, I’ve seen firsthand how much can be accomplished when we work together. Spring Branch schools are more than places for learning—they’re places where the community comes together, defines our shared educational values, and celebrates those values through the success of our students. Whether you’re a parent, a neighbor, or a local business owner, there’s a role for everyone.
A Story That Inspires
One of the many inspiring stories I’ve witnessed is that of a young woman whose family had recently moved to the United States. With the encouragement of mentors, she applied to several colleges, earning scholarships that allowed her to attend Texas A&M University. She went on to maintain a 4.0 GPA, graduate with a degree in accounting, and become a CPA. Today, she’s building her first home.
Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact we can have on one another. Mentorship, community support, and encouragement don’t just change one person’s life—they ripple out, creating a positive effect on entire families. Her younger sibling pursued her own college dreams, echoing her sister’s success. This is the kind of community spirit and vision that makes Spring Branch so special.
Ways to Get Involved
SBISD is a place where we all can contribute, and there is always room for more to join the effort. I encourage everyone to think about how they can get involved —no matter how much time you have to give. From attending a school play or supporting a sports team to volunteering in the classroom or serving as a mentor, there are countless ways to make a difference. You’ll not only make a difference—you’ll help build a stronger, more connected community for all of us.
The Heart of Our Schools
What makes Spring Branch unique is the strong sense of connection and cooperation between our schools, businesses, and faith communities. Despite the diversity of backgrounds, we all share a commitment to ensuring the success of Every Child. Along with being places of learning, our schools are places where educators, parents, and volunteers can celebrate the achievements and growth of the next generation. They also become places that draw former students back to raise their own families in Spring Branch.
Moving Forward: Strengthening Our Community
There are many ways we can all contribute to keeping Spring Branch a great place to live and learn. I encourage everyone to be a mentor or volunteer. By supporting our schools and students, we’re strengthening the foundation of our community and ensuring that future generations continue to thrive.
- By Patty Cowdrey
Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) proudly celebrates the achievements of our high schools, with Memorial, Stratford, Northbrook, and Spring Woods High Schools all demonstrating achievement in Advanced Placement® (AP) programs.
Memorial and Stratford High Schools have also been recognized as Gold and Silver on the AP® School Honor Roll for the second year in a row, respectively. Our schools have showcased outstanding results, expanding access to rigorous coursework and fostering a strong college-going culture.
Memorial High School
AP® School Honor Roll Gold School Award
Surpassed AP® School Honor Roll criteria for the second consecutive year
Stratford High School
AP® School Honor Roll Silver School Award
Achieved recognition for the second consecutive year
Northbrook High School
Spring Woods High School
Data shows improvement overall in AP® performance among 11th and 12th graders, with increased completion and credit received from College Prep courses.
Key Criteria for AP® School Honor Roll Recognition:
At least 40% of the graduating cohort took at least one AP® Exam during high school.
At least 25% of the graduating cohort scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP® Exam.
At least 2% of the graduating cohort took five or more AP® Exams, with at least one taken in ninth or 10th grade.
Congratulations to our Mustangs, Spartans, Raiders, and Tigers for their dedication and hard work!
More information about the AP® School Honor Roll can be found on AP® Central, the College Board's online platform for AP® resources and information. Source: Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR)
This large-scale, interactive display was the result of a campus-wide effort involving 40 STEM classes. Each class contributed five unique boards, resulting in a sprawling cityscape composed of 200 interconnected boards.
The project challenged students to work in groups to design solid black lines, creating pathways for Ozobot robots to navigate. Beyond the technical aspect, students had the freedom to express their creativity by designing their own sections of the city. The designs varied from 2D illustrations to intricate 3D structures, with some students blending both techniques. Every student played a role, ensuring that each board reflected diverse ideas and artistic flair.
The inspiration behind the Ozobot Coding City was to create an engaging, hands-on display for STEMfest, the school's STEM Night celebration. To bring this vision to life, students first learned how Ozobot robots operate, mastering the basics of coding and robotic navigation. They then explored different methods to construct city elements, utilizing 3D paper techniques to create standing buildings and dynamic cityscapes. This combination of technical learning and artistic design fostered not only STEM skills but also teamwork and problem-solving abilities.
Critical thinking, a key trait in Spring Branch Independent School District's (SBISD) Core Characteristics of a T-2-4 Ready Graduate, was a cornerstone of the project. Students encountered real-world challenges, especially when their 3D buildings didn’t stand as planned. Rather than giving up, they collaborated to troubleshoot and adapt their designs, developing resilience and innovative thinking—key skills for future academic and professional success.
Reflecting on the project, the STEM team expressed immense pride in both the scale and the outcome. “This is definitely the largest project I have ever taken on, and I am proud of how amazing it turned out,” shared Rachel Marino, a teacher at WCE. “I am also extremely proud of how creative the students were and all the work they put into building their boards.”
The most rewarding moment came when students saw the completed Ozobot Coding City on display. Their excitement was evident as they eagerly pointed out their contributions to family and friends, their faces beaming with pride. The Ozobot Coding City was more than just a project—it was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when collaboration, creativity, and the limitless potential of STEM education come together.