Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Art Educator's Legacy is Alive at Spring Woods High School

 

Spring Woods High School recently dedicated a campus wing to a legendary district art educator who inspired many students to pursue higher education and careers in fine arts or art education.

Andres Bautista, a storied and highly acclaimed art instructor at Landrum Middle School who also taught for a year at Spring Woods High, died three years ago. A district Teacher of the Year, he was imbued with a special ability to connect deeply with middle and high school students and to identify their potential talents in art and related areas

“People that are invested in their community and children are instrumental in building productive citizens,” said Spring Woods High’s Art Teacher Rebekah Tee. “Our art wing is a place where former students and staff members can take part and visit to celebrate Andres.”
 
The dedication officially transformed the school’s K Wing (Art Wing) into the new Andres Bautista Wing. The school’s adherence to the ideals of honor and spirit enforce the vision behind the transformation of the space.
 
“I think that if a teacher made a significant impact – and many do – we should honor and respect that teacher’s legacy,” said Tee.
 
Donations from community members and the investment of time and talent from school staff and students, including painting and providing supplies, shaped the project’s result.
 
 
 
 
“Many of our art teachers put in the work to make this happen with help from students,” said Tee. That collaboration has already made an impact, just as Bautista’s legacy continues to.
 
Students, many who gave up part of summer vacation to support the project, are showing signs of ownership and belonging in the space.
 
“We carry on his spirit here,” said Tee. “He exemplified what a teacher’s role should be in their lives. The dedication was a reminder to teachers that we have powerful tools to help students beyond the classroom.”
 
The contemporary and spirited design features an original mural by Bautista with added color, stripes, pictures and a department logo.
 
The original mural was touched up, and a new wall of fame features photographs of Bautista with his students and other staff. A new sign with his name completes the renovation.
 
 
 
 
“I think he would be proud of what his students have continued and that this wing is a symbol of his love for everyone,” said Tee. “He will always be here and in our hearts.” Tee and her colleague carry the torch passed by Bautista through their leadership and continued support of their students.
 
Excited to see the tribute and the acknowledgment of Bautista's legacy, Tee admits the dedication is a confirmation of a shared goal – helping students connect to their talents and fullest potential.
 
“The ultimate goal for us is to have an art program that is recognized and completely student-centered, much like Andres’ mantra and legacy,” said Tee. 
 

Submitted by Melissa Wiland, SBISD Communications, melissa.wiland@springbranchisd.com.

 
 
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