Spring Branch ISD Featured News

If you were to look up the word “loyal” in the dictionary, you might see a photo of Karen Cossey.

With a remarkable 36-year tenure at Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD), Cossey has become part of the community, serving in various roles. Her current position as a recruiter is where she truly shines, building a pipeline of future educators.

"I love my work as a recruiter because I have the opportunity to meet young teachers whose passion for education is contagious,” Cossey said. “It’s been a challenge during the current nationwide teacher shortage to find talented, dedicated teachers, so when I find people interested in the profession, it’s encouraging and exciting.”

Having started her career as a kindergarten teacher in SBISD, Cossey understands the essence of teaching: commitment, patience, compassion, and a genuine love for young people and helping them learn. When she recruits teachers for the district, she looks for these same characteristics, making her a relatable figure for prospective educators.

“I’ve been in my recruiting role for 17 years, so I recognize the spark when I see it,” Cossey said. “And when we see that special something, we do our best to bring that educator into the SBISD fold.”

As part of SBISD's recruitment efforts, Cossey regularly visits campuses, which serve as a critical means of attracting talented teachers. She meticulously plans visits to university job fairs, selects target schools, and prepares materials to showcase the district and all it has to offer prospective teachers. But her role is more than setting up booths and handing out brochures; it’s about building relationships and getting to know potential recruits.

According to Cossey, face-to-face time is crucial as it helps determine whether the teachers are a good fit for SBISD and vice versa. This emphasis on personal interaction highlights the care and attention she brings to her recruitment process.

Once a good candidate is identified, Cossey works with them to guide them through the application and hiring process, doing everything she can to set them up for success in SBISD. Her goal is to inspire future educators to see the district not only as a place to work but also as a community where they can truly thrive.

“From its tight-knit community to its dedicated staff, many of whom enroll their own children in the district, I believe SBISD offers a sense of family, which makes it an attractive place for young teachers starting out in their careers,” Cossey said.

Through her efforts in recruiting teachers to the district, Cossey emphasizes SBISD’s prime location, which offers a unique blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. She also highlights the wide range of recreational activities, cultural events, and food scenes, making SBISD a fun and enjoyable place to call home.

The district’s commitment to educators goes far beyond creating a sense of camaraderie. SBISD prioritizes the success of new teachers through a comprehensive mentoring program, pairing new educators with veteran teachers to help them gain confidence. The district also provides multiple professional development opportunities and supportive benefits packages that promote work-life balance.

“We need to take care of our teachers so they, in turn, can take care of our students and help them excel inside and outside the classroom,” Cossey said. “I’m proud that SBISD invests so much into providing supportive environments for our teachers, helping them develop and grow into the best possible educators they can be.”

Cossey highlights the district's T-2-4 vision as a strategic advantage in attracting new talent. T-2-4 ensures that every student graduates with a clear path to success, whether through a technical certificate, military training, or a two- or four-year degree. It resonates deeply with educators committed to preparing students for meaningful careers and further education.

At the end of the day, Cossey doesn’t just bring people into SBISD; she invites them to be part of a community that shares a common goal: helping students succeed.

“Collectively, we want the best for our students, and my task is finding people who share that vision and are ready to make a difference,” Cossey said.

Cossey encourages those interested in joining SBISD to explore opportunities within the district.

“This is a place where you can build a career, be part of something meaningful, and shape the future of education!"

To learn more, visit the SBISD website. 

Apply today.