Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Dear SBISD Family,

As we approach the winter break and look ahead to the new year, I am proud to reflect on the incredible progress we've made together this semester. To our dedicated teachers and staff, talented students, and supportive parents and community partners—thank you for making Spring Branch ISD such a remarkable place.

This semester has been transformative. Our hard work is clearly paying off, and the results are exciting. We’re leading the way in so many measures of student success – including, but not limited to, third grade reading, eighth grade math, and college readiness indicators, as evidenced on the Good Reason Houston Dashboard.

Good Reason Houston’s data also ranks us tops in kindergarten readiness. The Kinder Institute for Urban Studies at Rice University also recently recognized the positive impact of our exceptional Pre-K programs. Their research affirms students who attend Pre-K in SBISD outperform their peers who do not attend our prekindergarten program.

I’ve had the privilege of visiting many schools this semester, and every visit has reaffirmed the passion and dedication of our educators. Our leaders and teachers are working exceptionally hard on behalf of Every Child. Our students continue to exceed expectations and reach new milestones, and we couldn’t be more proud of their progress.

The new RISE College Academy at Northbrook High School launched this semester with tremendous success. Our first cohort of students are on track to earn associate degrees while completing high school coursework, setting them up for a bright future. We’ll be expanding this programming to Spring Woods High School next year, with the launch of the Tiger College Academy. Even more students will have the chance to earn both high school and college diplomas before high school graduation.

We’re also seeing great success with THRIVE, our homegrown teacher recruitment program in partnership with Houston Community College and University of Houston-Victoria , attracting new talent into our classrooms, which is strengthening the quality of education throughout SBISD.

I also want to acknowledge and thank parents and community members who have partnered with us on two important committees this fall. Our School Finance Advocacy Team (SFAT) reconvened to learn the latest about SBISD and state finance issues and opportunities when the 89th Legislative Session launches next month.

They have laid the groundwork to advocate for the public school funding we need to ensure continued success for SBISD and the 5.5 million public school children of Texas. As we approach the legislative session, I am grateful for their tireless efforts both this fall, and in the months ahead. We’ll need your advocacy, too. Follow along on the 89th Legislative Session website we will launch when the session kicks off in early January.

Additionally, this fall the district convened an Athletics and Arts Stakeholder Committee (AASC) comprised of students, staff, parents, and community partners. The group is charged with providing input and feedback to the SBISD Board of Trustees as they continue conversations toward a possible athletics/arts facilities-focused bond package to present to SBISD voters next May.

Looking ahead to the New Year, I’m excited for the opportunities before us. We will continue focusing on providing our students with the best experiences and opportunities possible. Big things are happening in SBISD, and I’m proud to be a part of this amazing school district.

I hope you and your loved ones have a restful and joyful holiday season. Take time to recharge, reflect, and enjoy quality moments with family and friends. I look forward to the continued growth and success we will achieve together in the year ahead.

With gratitude,

Dr. Jennifer Blaine
Superintendent of Schools