Spring Branch ISD Featured News

At a recent awards luncheon, Spring Branch ISD Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) teacher Molly Nipper was announced as one of two teachers in Houston to win the Houston Museum of Natural Science - Wilhelmina C. Robertson Excellence in Science or Mathematics Teaching Award.

Nipper was selected for the award because of her dedication to rigor and excellence for students in the Gifted & Talented program at Bendwood School. 

“I do what I do because of my students” Nipper said.  “Putting the Core Value Every Child [into my work] is not difficult when Every Child is why I teach.”

She was nominated for the award by a parent of a former student who appreciated how much her son learned in Nipper’s class. 

“I teach so students can reach their fullest potential,” Nipper added. “Parents expect the best education and I do my best to ensure that. I am proud to be a Spring Branch ISD teacher.“

Engaging her students in real-world opportunities and project-based lessons that spark creativity and imagination is what Nipper is known to do. In the past few years, she has provided hands-on space science lessons in the classroom and at the museum’s Expedition Center. 

In 2019, she organized visits and presentations to students by a former astronaut and a space scientist.

Nipper also demonstrates her own Limitless Curiosity (another Spring Branch ISD Core Value) and sets an example for her students by challenging herself professionally and academically:

• Through Rice University, Nipper is a Fellow in the Noyce Leadership Initiative for Inquiry Science Teaching program.
• She is one of 28 national Space Foundation teacher liaisons. 
• Nipper is a member of the Space Educators Crew, a teacher leadership program through an outreach of the Space Center Houston Space Exploration Educator Conference. 
• She is also working on a doctoral degree in executive leadership in education at Houston Baptist University.

She will be recognized for her achievements at the next Spring Branch ISD Board of Trustees regular meeting on November 15. 

Congratulations on receiving this well-deserved recognition, Ms. Nipper. We are #SBISDProud of you and your work to serve Every Child!