Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Rhoda Goldberg, Ph.D., Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) Director of Science, brings expertise and innovative vision to the Curriculum and Instruction team.

With a distinguished background in science education, Goldberg is committed to revolutionizing the way students interact with and understand scientific concepts. She advocates for an inquiry-based science curriculum designed to deepen students' grasp of scientific principles while cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving skills—Core Characteristics of a T-2-4 Ready Graduate.

Igniting a Passion for Science

Under her direction, the science department, along with many dedicated science teachers, developed a new curriculum that aligns with the latest Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Goldberg’s approach emphasizes real-world applications of learning that ignite curiosity. Students are guided through a process of questioning, investigation, explanation and communication.

“My vision is that all students will experience science through an inquiry-based approach that not only teaches science concepts to a greater depth of understanding, but also supports students as critical thinkers and problem solvers,” Goldberg said. “When students experience science in this way, it not only increases engagement and understanding of the science content, it will also build their capacity in thinking critically, problem-solving, explaining their thinking using evidence, and communicating their ideas.”

The department will provide professional development, academic coaching, and campus support to district educators.

Supporting SBISD's T-2-4 Vision

“Our new science curriculum encourages students to use the engineering design process to apply science content in innovative ways and to explore multiple solutions,” Goldberg said. “These experiences foster persistence, adaptability, and resourcefulness—key Core Characteristics. Students will frequently collaborate, communicate their ideas, and tackle real-world problems, enhancing skills like empathy, ethical reasoning, and self-awareness.”

Additional Insights

Goldberg is enthusiastic about the new science TEKS and the collaborative work of her team. “The SBISD teachers/curriculum writers and the Science Department staff has been working arduously to create a curriculum that will support their fellow teachers and build the T-2-4 characteristics in ALL students across the district."

If you are interested in joining Team SBISD, click here.