Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Michelle Garcia, Ridgecrest Elementary principal, was recently chosen to join the 2022 cohort of educators attending a weeklong summer institute at the Principals’ Center at the Harvard Graduate School of Education as part of the Raising School Leaders program, an initiative focusing on developing stronger school leaders.

“I am so thankful for the opportunity to continue growing my leadership skills to become a better leader for my Ridgecrest family of staff, students and community,” said Garcia. “They are my inspiration and deserve the best leader to guide them after these last two years of pandemic schooling.”

The Charles Butt Foundation, a nonprofit organization aimed at strengthening public education and fostering community engagement, sponsors the program and is sending 85 Texas school leaders to attend this year. The 2022 cohort represents 51 school districts and three charter schools across the state.

For every participant in the Harvard Institute, the Charles Butt Foundation covers all expenses for the attendees, including tuition, travel and hotel – investing on average about $9,200 per attendee.

Led by Harvard faculty and other experts, attendees have the opportunity to participate in one of two weeklong workshops on leadership development and coaching or school turnaround. Through each workshop, participants gain a series of strategies that will positively impact their campuses and communities.

“I am very excited for Michelle to be part of this institute,” said Karen Liska, Spring Branch ISD community superintendent. “She is extremely compassionate and supportive of all her students and is always focused on their academic and emotional success. This experience will allow her to continue to grow and share her successful practices with other leaders.”

Garcia will be part of a statewide network of school leaders that are empowered to collaborate to make a positive change across the public education system. She is also sponsored to attend the organization’s annual leadership symposium and will actively receive support and professional development.

“I am certain that I will learn new skills and strategies through this institute that will help me lead us to new levels of student achievement not only academically, but also socially, for Every Child,” added Garcia.