Spring Branch ISD Featured News

The first day of the 2020-2021 school year was a unique one. As students began distance learning with online connections, resources and assignments, some of their teachers were relieved that their own young children were receiving care and assistance at the new Employee Childcare Center, the first of its kind in Spring Branch ISD and among other area districts.

Located in a former elementary school, the site was refurbished in record time to safely serve and care for 138 young children (from ages six weeks through 5th grade) so their district-employee parents could focus on serving students in virtual and, eventually, in-person classrooms.

“The center is an integral part of reopening of SBISD schools,” said Construction Project Manager Max Buja. “It is a huge benefit to employees and the district as a whole.”

Collective Greatness in action

In late spring, district leaders took time to listen to employees with young children about supports they needed for a return to classroom instruction in the fall. 

This summer, in a matter of a few weeks, a crew of district experts sprang into action to develop the idea of a childcare center and then simultaneously design programming, build out and furnish a facility, hire staff, obtain day care licensing, set up food service operations, communicate with employees… AND enroll children in the center. No small feat for a hardworking team.

“We cannot offer the excellent educational program the SBISD community expects without our wonderful employees,” said Sharee Cantrell, Director of Early Childhood.  “Our goal is to give employees peace of mind that their own children are being well cared for, while they work to offer high quality instruction in their classrooms.”  

The Employee Childcare Center opened on August 24, the first day of school, with personnel in place to help students access virtual classrooms and assignments and provide daily care from 6:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. The employees’ children in the center are enrolled in SBISD schools as well as distance learning programs through other public schools in the Houston area.

SBISD's Employee Child Care Center from SBISD on Vimeo.

“Both of my kids have successfully been on their Zooms with their home schools,” said parent and Memorial High School teacher, Lindsay Jasek. Her husband, Brian Jasek, is also a teacher and coach at the same school.

“I think my son [2nd grader] is secretly excited to be back on a schedule with a teacher who isn’t one of his parents,” said Jasek. “I know he is excited to see his classmates, even if it is via Zoom right now.” 

SBISD Childcare Manager Deirdre Glover, instrumental in hiring and training the staff at the Childcare Center, echoed this parent’s sentiments. “The staff has done a phenomenal job of making sure everyone [parents and students] is comfortable and happy,” she said. 

“There were no tears on the first day of school. The kids are happy to be around other children.” 

Lynn Austin, a former SBISD elementary school principal, is serving as the director of the facility.

“Routines are coming along and kids know the schedule for the day. This helps them get back to a regular school day,” said Austin.  “Families are so appreciative for this benefit to be provided for them in SBISD.”

She reports hearing a student tell his parent when being picked up at the end of the day, “Today was the best day of my life.”

The district team who went above-and-beyond to get the Employee Childcare Center up and running was honored with

“I AM SBISD” awards at the August 24 Board of Trustees meeting at Northbrook High School. The award is given to staff and community members who go above-and-beyond to support the district’s Core Values.

“It was quite an adventure and really is a testament to SBISD Core Values,” said Cantrell.  “Obviously, our Collective Greatness and Collaborative Spirit, but also our Moral Compass to do what is right for Every Child and the parents we serve.”

When asked what this facility means for employees, “It means everything!” said Jasek. “I truly appreciate that we work in a district who listened to the needs of its employees and responded accordingly.”