Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Rita Davidek, first grade teacher at Ridgecrest Elementary, has planted her roots deep in Spring Branch ISD, and the “tree” is still growing! 

She attended Spring Woods Middle and High schools in her youth before attending Texas A&M to become a teacher. After student-teaching at Wilchester Elementary in SBISD, she was hired to teach first grade at Terrace Elementary.

“I like helping people understand how to do something. I also love books, so it seemed like a good fit.” said Davidek when asked how she knew she wanted to be a teacher.

Subsequently, she spent 27 years as a teacher at Pine Shadows Elementary before transferring to Ridgecrest. She now has a total of 35 years of service in SBISD, all as a first grade teacher.

Along the way, she married and has two daughters, who are now both teachers, including one who teaches in SBISD at Edgewood Elementary.

A highlight of Davidek’s career is when her former students return to visit her, or she sees them out in the community.

“I like it when they say, ‘I remember you! You were a great teacher,’” she said.

During this unprecedented time of her career, she has been actively figuring out new ways to help her students learn concepts, and connects regularly with them to provide individualized support. 

“Some are apprehensive at first when we connect over Zoom,” said Davidek. “I tell them it is almost like we are just talking across the table, but now we are talking across our computers. My help works just the same.”

She appreciates and understands the importance of making connections with parents, too.

“SBISD has had a big push to connect teachers with parents,” said Davidek. “This opens all kinds of doors and breaks down walls.”

Davidek’s family tree is growing this month with the arrival of a new grandchild. This has prompted a new chapter in her life, as she is retiring to take care of the baby so her daughter can continue her teaching career.

Reflecting on her 35-year career, Davidek has this advice for future teachers: “Spring Branch is a great place to call home and to work with kids, families and staff, as we believe in educating our future.”

Thank you, Rita Davidek, for your service to SBISD!