Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) proudly recognizes the outstanding leadership of its 2024-25 Principals of the Year: HP Hyder III, Principal of Northbrook High School (NHS), as the Secondary Principal of the Year, and Carrmilla Young, Principal of Buffalo Creek Elementary (BCE), as the Elementary Principal of the Year.

Each was honored by Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Blaine at the February 12 principal meeting, highlighting their dedication to student success, school culture, and community engagement.

"These outstanding principals are fostering environments where students and teachers thrive," said Jennifer Parker, SBISD Community Superintendent for Elementary. "Their leadership and commitment to excellence make a lasting impact on their school communities, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements."

Bryan Williams, SBISD Community Superintendent for Secondary, echoed this sentiment, adding, “HP Hyder III and Carrmilla Young are both dynamic leaders who go above and beyond to ensure that every student has the opportunity to reach and exceed their dreams. Their impact is inspiring.”

Secondary Principal of the Year: HP Hyder III, Northbrook High School (NHS)

With 27 years in education, HP Hyder III has built a career on the power of reach—knowing that educators have the ability to change life trajectories. His leadership at NHS is defined by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and student supports.

“Northbrook is more than just a school—it’s a community that expects every student in reaching their goals,” said Hyder III. “I’m proud to serve as principal and share this recognition with the dedicated teachers, staff, and families who make Northbrook such a great place.”

Hyder III has championed numerous initiatives to create opportunities for students, including launching the RISE College Academy, the district’s first college academy that allows students to earn an associates degree before graduating high school. Under his leadership, Northbrook has shown consistent growth in student achievement, strengthened its school culture, built a culture of accountability, and doubled scholarship and grant awards for students.

Hyder III’s deep connection to his students is personal. “It’s not what, but who inspires me—and it’s my students,” he shared. “When I look at them, I see me. I know firsthand how a quality education can open windows of opportunities. As a principal, I believe it is my responsibility to push the limits so their probability of greatness isn’t stifled.”

Hyder III has long strived for reaching the milestone of Principal of the Year. "Being a principal is both challenging and lonely but knowing that my peers recognize my dedication and passion for education motivates me to keep 'Defying the Odds',” he shared. “While this honor fills me with joy, I owe it entirely to my NHS community—without them, I wouldn’t be the leader I am today.”

Elementary Principal of the Year: Carrmilla Young, Buffalo Creek Elementary (BCE)

With 20 years in education, Carrmilla Young has led BCE with a vision for student success and a deep belief in the power of community. Under her leadership, BCE earned a “B” state accountability rating, a milestone that she considers a proud moment in her career.

“Our goal is to help Every Child reach their full potential through hard work and teamwork,” Young said. “We believe in the power of community, and by working together, we can help our students succeed.”

Young is inspired by the unlimited potential of her students and staff. “Seeing those that I serve excel and accomplish their goals means a great deal to me. It’s what inspires me to do my best for them each day.”

BCE is a school where success is a shared effort, something Young proudly emphasizes. “We affectionately proclaim that ‘BCE is the Place to Be!’ and it truly is,” she said. “This recognition speaks to the dedication, commitment, and Collective Greatness of our school community. I’m absolutely thrilled that the incredible work our students and teachers do each day gets a chance to shine. They deserve it!”

Being named Principal of the Year is an honor that Young holds with deep gratitude. “I am humbled and most grateful! It’s an honor to be recognized by my peers, especially considering the amazingly talented leaders in Spring Branch. I have great respect for the wonderful things that are happening in every Spring Branch school, every day.”

Young believes that strong leadership is essential to student success. “Leadership matters. A strong vision for student success and the ability to bring a community together, especially during challenging times, is essential. An effective principal creates the conditions for students and staff to be and do their best. A principal’s guidance and influence can make all the difference.”

SBISD congratulates our Principals of the Year for their strong leadership, dedication, and impact on their students, staff, and school communities. Their commitment to making their schools the best they can be is a true reflection of SBISD’s mission: to inspire minds and shape lives.

#SBISDProud