Volunteers at Spring Woods High School (SWHS) in Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD) are shaping young minds and strengthening programs through their ongoing support and dedication.
Retirees boost algebra skills
A group of retired engineers and geologists from the Energy Corridor has made it its mission to help future generations succeed in the classroom. On a regular basis, you can find Mitch Winkler, Huey Tang, and Phillip Rowell working with students in Charles Reed’s algebra class at SWHS.
“Without fail, these guys show up at least twice a week to work with freshmen struggling in algebra,” said Reed. “Along the way, they build strong relationships that motivate students to keep coming to school.”
The volunteer effort took root several years ago when another retiree, Dick Murphy, saw an opportunity to bring in additional support to help students in several Houston-area school districts, including SBISD, gain confidence in math.
Before launching the effort, Murphy had completed a long-term substitute teaching assignment in chemistry, where he saw firsthand how difficult it was for a single teacher to meet every student’s needs. Drawing on his background as an engineer in the oil and gas industry, he realized that placing subject-matter experts alongside teachers could provide students with more individualized support while exposing them to real-world applications of math and science.
“Because Dick spoke up, something special has taken shape in my classroom. Not only do Mitch, Huey, and Phillip help the students; they help me,” Reed said. “They have become invaluable partners in helping my students succeed. The class periods they work with perform statistically better than those that don’t, which demonstrates their effectiveness.”
Reed also noted that the volunteer group has been vital to the students’ success on the STARR test because if they don’t pass algebra, they don’t graduate.
“The energy they bring to the classroom supplements my efforts and curriculum, and in the process, helps curb the drop-out rate,” said Reed.
In addition to helping students master algebra fundamentals, Mitch, Huey, and Phillip regularly give presentations on engineering careers to show students how they can apply math to secure well-paying jobs.
Through their steady presence, real-world experience, and belief in students’ potential, these volunteers are doing more than helping freshmen pass algebra; they are opening doors to graduation, careers, and futures students might not have imagined.
Sole volunteer fuels school spirit for two decades
Another volunteer at SWHS is also making an impact in a different way.
Brent Favor, whose daughter attended the school, has been volunteering at the high school for 20 years and leads fundraising efforts, including concessions at athletic events and the Spirit store.
“Brent goes above and beyond in serving our school, and does the job of an entire booster club,” said Reed. “We are incredibly grateful for everything he has done for us.”
Since he began volunteering in 2006, Favor has raised more than half a million dollars for Spring Woods and volunteered nearly 7,000 hours.
Dubbed as the “Spring Woods Superman,” Favor has made a lasting difference in the lives of students and the school community through his decades of services and tireless dedication, which have strengthened programs, supported students, and helped the school continue to thrive.
“The impact Mitch, Phil, Huey, and Brent can’t be measured by hours alone,” said Reed. “There is no doubt they change lives, and that’s something our students carry with them long after they leave Spring Woods.”