Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD) Elementary Teacher of the Year Finalist Alexder Leon has turned the traditional notion of elementary music education on its head. And everyone loves it.

When he joined Cedar Brook Elementary two years ago, he was determined to shake things up and introduce students to new experiences. 

"I believe music should be fun, diverse, and reflective of our world," said Alexder. 

Alexder's music program at Cedar Brook Elementary is a testament to his innovative approach. Influenced by history and cultural events, he has transformed music into an integral part of the school experience. His concerts and programs are not just about music, but about celebrating diversity and exploring different cultures. From Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) to circus themes, from the history of disco to movie-inspired performances, his students are exposed to a rich tapestry of musical experiences. 

Growing up, Alexder's parents taught him to pursue a high-paying job like a doctor or lawyer. But Alexder decided to seek a degree in instrumental music because he knew that one day, he would use it to teach others. 

"I didn't think I would go into professional music, so I followed the adage, 'those who can do; those who can’t, teach,'" he said.  

His first year of teaching was in 2020 when teachers were under extraordinary stress given the COVID pandemic. However, that experience didn't deter Alexder from going into education. If anything, it strengthened his commitment and eventually led him to SBISD, where he landed his current role teaching pre-K through 5th-grade students. 

"I didn't imagine I would be teaching in an elementary school setting because I never really liked kids," Alexder laughed. ”It didn't take long for me to fall in love with teaching the 'babies' and helping them lay the building blocks of music education." 

What Alexder enjoys most is watching students form connections and be able to grasp a new concept. It's rewarding for Alexder to watch his students grow, not just as musicians but as individuals as well. 

As he teaches students about melodies, rhythm, and instruments, Alexder is also teaching them an even more important lesson: to be true to themselves. 

"I've always believed in being authentically me, and that's something I want my students to learn," said Alexder. "Whether through music or honoring their cultures, I want them to see their diversity as a strength and something worthy of celebrating.”

His dedication and innovative approach to music education evidently have not gone unnoticed, given his nomination for Elementary Teacher of the Year Finalist. 

"To think that my love of music brought me this far – it's incredible," he said. "I've always seen myself as a teacher, and I plan on teaching the rest of my life." 

As Alexder reflects on his time in SBISD, he sees Cedar Brook Elementary as a school and a place where music and education converge to create something extraordinary. 

"It feels like home here. It's a family – a support network where teachers and parents come together to help our students shine in the classroom and life," he said. 

• Read more about our Elementary and Secondary Teacher of the Year Finalists here.
• To learn more about how you can join Team SBISD, click here.