Spring Branch ISD Featured News

The Future Officials Academy, which has been in operation at Spring Woods High School (SWHS) in Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) for seven years, trains and certifies high school students to become referees and umpires. Michael Dorantes, an AP Government teacher at SWHS and a passionate umpire himself, is the program's driving force.

Dorantes believes that the program helps students develop important interpersonal skills such as patience and problem-solving. He piloted the program in 2017, and it proved to be a hit with students, who enjoyed learning about team sports officiating. Consequently, it was added to the Physical Education department's course catalog, enabling students to choose it as an elective.

"I play soccer. For me, it would be amazing to be a referee in that or any sport. It looks amazing," said Liam, a Junior at Spring Woods High School. "It's really important to have training. I can't be shy or nervous in this role. I need confidence. Training helps."

Currently, Dorantes serves as the coordinator of the Future Officials Academy, and more than 100 students have passed through the program. Since 2017, these students have officiated more than 60 paid games. Dorantes believes that the program helps students build interpersonal and leadership skills while getting involved in the community.

According to Spring Woods High School Junior Jimmy, officiating games requires the ability to control oneself on the field. "I think it's really about discipline," he said.

The Future Officials Academy program teaches students the rules and regulations of team sports, including soccer, basketball, baseball, softball, football and volleyball, among others. They work with their peers to gain experience and practice officiating situations. Additionally, students attend athletic games to observe and evaluate other officials.

"I play basketball," said Damien, a Senior at Spring Woods. "Seeing it from a different point of view gives me a new outlook on the game. You can also make a lot of money; it's truly a great opportunity."

The Future Officials Academy helps students develop the Core Characteristics of a T-2-4 Ready Graduate by enabling them to exercise and develop communication and collaboration skills. Officiating games not only helps students interact on a more personal level with others, but it also builds their confidence, which is essential for any future career or post-secondary learning. It also provides a way to earn more for post-secondary education.

"This gives students something in return, including an opportunity to pay for college. They can do this after high school. It's a great way to pay for school," said Dorantes. "I have students that have gone through this program and are now at college paying for their degrees."

Thanks to a recent Spring Branch Education Foundation grant, the program has been able to purchase new supplies, materials, and uniforms for its 31 students, who receive an elective PE credit towards their high school graduation. This year, the program has formed new partnerships with SBMSA Football, Houston Community College Officiating, and Houston TASO Basketball, providing students with valuable exposure to sports organizations and real-world employment experiences.

The program's success has led to its inclusion in the curriculums of other schools across Texas, with a dozen schools now hosting the academy statewide. The Future Officials Academy program is shaping the next generation of referees and umpires while instilling a passion for fair play and sportsmanship in the Spring Branch community and beyond.

To learn more about the Future Officials Academy program, visit their website at www.futureofficialsacademy.com.

Click here to read our summer spotlight on this program.