This year’s Homecoming at Northbrook High School (NHS) holds special significance. The school, a pillar of the Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD) for five decades, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Among the alumni returning to join in the festivities is Edith Patel, a 1998 graduate who once danced her way into the hearts of her peers as part of the Bandoleras, Northbrook’s renowned dance squad.

Patel first joined the Bandoleras in 1994, and her time with the team is a source of cherished memories. “Being a Bandolera taught me so much more than just how to dance,” said Patel. “It was about discipline, leadership, and time management. These skills have stayed with me throughout my life.” Rising through the ranks, Patel became the Colonel of the Bandoleras, a role that honed her leadership abilities and set the stage for her future successes.

Now, as she prepares to return to Northbrook for the 50th anniversary celebrations, Patel is filled with nostalgia and excitement. “Northbroook changed my life,” she says. “It gave me the skills and confidence to pursue my dreams.” Those dreams led her from the University of Houston Cougar Dolls and the NBA’s Houston Rockets Power Dancers to the Houston Texans Cheerleaders. Patel also found her calling in education, spending over two decades teaching and mentoring new generations of dancers.

Patel’s journey highlights the impact of SBISD’s commitment to nurturing its students. “Being a product of SBISD makes me incredibly proud,” she notes. “The motto ‘Inspiring Minds, Shaping Lives’ truly resonates with me. The education and experiences I gained here shaped who I am today.”

For Edith Patel, returning to Northbrook is not just a chance to relive cherished memories but also an opportunity to give back. “I hope to find ways to contribute and support the Bandoleras and the school that gave me so much,” she says. Her return and ongoing involvement reflect the enduring spirit of tradition that defines Northbrook High School.

As NHS celebrates its 50th anniversary, Patel’s story serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of school experiences and the continuous journey of growth and giving back.

Riana Bhattacharjee, a senior at Stratford High School and an exceptional student in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program at Spring Branch ISD's Guthrie Center, has earned a distinguished spot in the inaugural Bush School Youth Leadership Program at Texas A&M University.

This elite, civics-focused residential program, set to begin in the summer of 2025, aims to nurture future leaders in public service and government. Bhattacharjee will serve on the program's student advisory board, a key role allowing her to represent her peers and influence the program’s development. The group’s first retreat is scheduled for mid-September at the Texas A&M campus and the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

Supported by the Texas Pioneer Foundation and associated with the National Conference of Governor’s Schools, the Bush School Youth Leadership Program will host 75 high school students annually. The curriculum includes meetings with elected officials at the State Capitol, addressing Texas-specific issues, creating public concern campaigns, facing ethical challenges, and engaging in college-level studies and outdoor leadership activities.

Jane Primrose, Assistant Principal at Guthrie Center, praised Bhattacharjee’s selection as a reflection of SBISD’s CTE program’s success in helping students discover and pursue their passions. “Riana’s achievements highlight the dynamic and supportive educational environment at Guthrie Center. Our CTE programs are crafted to foster real-world skills and opportunities, and Riana’s success exemplifies how these initiatives guide students towards impactful futures,” Primrose said.

Bhattacharjee’s mother also expressed her gratitude for the support provided by SBISD and the Guthrie Center. “I am incredibly thankful for the encouragement and guidance Riana has received throughout her educational journey. The support from her teachers and the school has been instrumental in her achievements, and I deeply appreciate their dedication,” she said.

Bhattacharjee’s recognition highlights the exceptional opportunities within SBISD and reinforces the value of a well-rounded education that integrates both academic and technical skills. SBISD’s T-2-4 vision aims to ensure that every graduate earns either a technical certificate, military training, or a two-year or four-year degree.

The Texas Pioneer Foundation is a private, independent 501(c)(3) organization supporting innovative educational programs in Texas for underserved and disadvantaged students to improve overall educational quality and outcomes.

The Governor's School of Texas, formerly known as the Texas Honors Leadership Program (THLP), is a summer program for academically talented high school students who have completed their sophomore or junior years. The program, a member of the National Conference of Governor’s Schools, selects 100 students annually. Scholars nominated by their senior counselors are invited to serve as junior counselors for the following year.

Jamie Flint, a teacher at Spring Woods High School (SWH), has been honored by the Texas Medical Association (TMA) with an award recognizing her outstanding contributions to education.

Flint’s dedication and innovative teaching methods earned her this accolade, which includes a $7,000 cash prize and a $3,000 grant for her classroom.

A 2017 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards finalist and a 2019 Chevron grant recipient who explored the rainforest, Flint is also a former SBISD Teacher of the Year. Her recent TMA recognition underscores her ongoing commitment to preparing students for future careers in the medical field. “It was a great honor to hear I had received the award,” Flint said. “TMA is not involved in education, so it was so nice to see that they appreciate the things we are doing to help prepare students for the medical field.”

Flint plans to use the $3,000 grant to acquire probeware (scientific equipment that allows probes to be interfaced with computer software to collect data), which will provide her students with hands-on experience and real-time data analysis to enhance their lab work and understanding of scientific concepts. “This grant will help students get more hands-on experience with tools they will use in college,” Flint explained.

Her success is also reflected in her students' achievements in Chemistry. Flint attributes their improved performance to her tailored approach in preparing them for the AP Chemistry exam, which includes mock exams and targeted reviews. 

Known for her engaging teaching style, Flint emphasizes hands-on activities and breaks down complex concepts into manageable pieces to boost student confidence and involvement. “I try to make the learning as accessible as possible so students can feel successful,” she said. “When students feel successful, they are more confident and more engaged.”

Flint’s commitment to professional growth is evident in her advice to fellow educators: “Never stop growing and learning. I’ve attended professional development every summer since my first year teaching 21 years ago. Every year I learn new and better ways of teaching concepts.”

Jamie Flint’s recognition by the Texas Medical Association is a testament to her exceptional contribution to education and her commitment to her students’ success. Her efforts continue to inspire and elevate teaching in SBISD.

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Congratulations, Ms. Flint!

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