Spring Branch ISD Featured News

 

Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD) is proud to celebrate the 2026 cohort of Grow Your Own students. This group of future educators is taking the next step toward careers in the classroom and represents the strength of a pipeline built right here in SBISD.

These students are on their way to college to pursue degrees in education with a clear goal. They plan to return to SBISD and serve the community that helped shape them. Each student received a letter of intent from the district that recognizes their commitment and outlines a pathway back to SBISD as a certified teacher. This work reflects a long-term investment in our students and in the future of our classrooms.

Cohort members from the Class of 2026 include: Nancy Armenta, Campbell Bradford, Sophia Bryant, Dante Burleigh, Sarah Fadhli, Emily Flores, Miriam Garcia, Natalie Gleason , Angely Guzman, Julia Medina, Narhalie Padilla, Eddie Palmeros, Ashley Payne, Yuleimy Ramirez, Trinh Tran, Cate Thielhorn, Cindy Wang, Sarah Yoo

A pathway that starts early

The Grow Your Own initiative is designed to build a strong teacher pipeline by identifying and supporting students early. Through the Career and Technical Education Education and Training program of study, students gain a clear pathway into the profession.

Coursework includes Principles of Education and Training, Human Growth and Development, Instructional Practices, and Practicum in Education and Training. Students also gain real experience through internships and classroom-based practicum placements where they support instruction and learn alongside educators.

Many participants are active in the Texas Association of Future Educators, building leadership skills and strengthening their commitment to the profession.

From student to staff

SBISD is already seeing the impact of this work. Former Grow Your Own students are now serving in classrooms across the district as paraprofessionals and teachers.

Hired 2023
Alejandra Rodarte Guzman
Emily Arellano
Isabela Perez
Karina Zamora
Mia Velasquez
Alexia Perez Mejia
Desieray Alvarez
Grace Tellez

Hired 2024
Daisy Hernandez
Emily Mejia

Hired 2025
Jenny Reyes
Nancy Armenta
Kimaure Sterling
Damaris Garcia
Leslie Medina
Grace Goodson

Hired 2026
Elsa Gonzalez
Kendall Lippold
Reid Wiland

These individuals represent what is possible when we invest in our own students and stay connected to them through their journey.

Meeting the need. Building the future.

The Grow Your Own initiative aligns directly with SBISD workforce needs. It supports early identification of future educators and creates a sustainable approach to staffing by growing talent from within.

Students leave high school with a strong foundation in teaching and learning. They move forward with purpose. And they return ready to serve.

Looking ahead

We are proud of these students. We will continue to support them through college and beyond. And we look forward to welcoming them back to SBISD classrooms. If you are interested in teaching in SBISD, click here.

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