In SBISD, keeping schools safe starts with relationships, trust and being present for students every day.
At Spring Branch Middle School (SBMS), Officer Nancy Avila has spent the past five years doing just that. As a campus officer, she works alongside students, staff and families to help create a school where students feel safe, supported and connected.
“What I love most is the opportunity to build relationships with students,” Avila said. “Sometimes something as simple as taking the time to listen, encourage them or let them know that someone believes in them can make a difference.”
Those everyday connections are also an important part of the work of Officer Rigoberto Hernandez, who has served SBISD for approximately 13 years. Hernandez serves in the SBISD Police Department’s patrol division alongside his partner, K-9 Wat.
Wat, a 3-year-old Belgian shepherd, is specially trained to detect illegal narcotics, ammunition, smokeless powder and firearms.
Hernandez and Wat work across SBISD, partnering with campus administrators and the SBISD Police Department to help keep schools safe.
But Wat has another important role: connecting with students.
Whether visiting a campus, walking the halls or stopping by a Caught You Reading celebration, Wat has a way of bringing students together. His wagging tail often draws a crowd, giving students an opportunity to say hello, ask questions and get to know Hernandez, too.
“When students see Wat, their faces light up with excitement, and any initial intimidation completely melts away,” Hernandez said.
“Seeing a student transform from being hesitant around law enforcement to smiling, laughing and feeling safe in our presence proves that we are building real trust and breaking down barriers every single day.”
For Avila and Hernandez, that connection to students is at the heart of their work and what’s possible in SBISD. It is about helping students know they are supported, that people believe in them and that a challenge or difficult moment today does not have to define what comes next.
Watch as Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Blaine visits with Officer Avila, Officer Hernandez and K-9 Wat to go behind the badge and learn more about the people, relationships and everyday connections helping create safe, supportive schools.