Spring Branch ISD Featured News

This year’s Homecoming at Northbrook High School (NHS) held special significance. The school, a pillar of the Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD) for five decades, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Among the alumni returning to join in the festivities was Edith Patel, a 1998 graduate who once danced her way into the hearts of her peers as part of the Bandoleras, Northbrook’s renowned dance squad.

Patel first joined the Bandoleras in 1994, and her time with the team is a source of cherished memories. “Being a Bandolera taught me so much more than just how to dance,” said Patel. “It was about discipline, leadership, and time management. These skills have stayed with me throughout my life.” Rising through the ranks, Patel became the Colonel of the Bandoleras, a role that honed her leadership abilities and set the stage for her future successes.

As she joined in this year's homecoming, Patel was filled with nostalgia and excitement. “Northbroook changed my life,” she says. “It gave me the skills and confidence to pursue my dreams.” Those dreams led her from the University of Houston Cougar Dolls and the NBA’s Houston Rockets Power Dancers to the Houston Texans Cheerleaders. Patel also found her calling in education, spending over two decades teaching and mentoring new generations of dancers.

Patel’s journey highlights the impact of SBISD’s commitment to nurturing its students. “Being a product of SBISD makes me incredibly proud,” she notes. “The motto ‘Inspiring Minds, Shaping Lives’ truly resonates with me. The education and experiences I gained here shaped who I am today.”

For Edith Patel, returning to Northbrook was not just a chance to relive cherished memories but also an opportunity to give back. “I hope to find ways to contribute and support the Bandoleras and the school that gave me so much,” she says. Her return and ongoing involvement reflect the enduring spirit of tradition that defines Northbrook High School.

As NHS celebrates its 50th anniversary, Patel’s story serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of school experiences and the continuous journey of growth and giving back.

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