Spring Branch ISD Featured News

When Spring Woods High School (SWHS) launched its Unified program in 2019, no one could have predicted the ripple effect it would set in motion across Spring Branch ISD (SBISD).

What began with a few student-athletes and a bold vision for inclusion has grown into a powerful movement — one that continues to expand and take root in SBISD.

Unified Sports® — a Special Olympics initiative that unites students with and without disabilities through inclusive athletic and social activities — has become a growing force for good in the district. It is led by students, embraced by staff, and transforming campus culture.

“The ripple effect is real,” said Stephanie Meshell, principal at Spring Woods High School (SWHS). “What started here is now inspiring others across the district. Our students didn’t just join the program — they’ve owned it and grown it in ways we never imagined.”

Unified programming directly supports SBISD’s mission to prepare T-2-4 Ready Graduates by developing the district’s Core Characteristics: empathy, teamwork, leadership, collaboration, communication, adaptability, and personal responsibility.

Spring Woods High School (SWHS): Where It All Began

SWHS is a district and national model for inclusive education. In 2023, the school was honored as a Special Olympics National Banner Unified Champion School®, meeting ten standards of excellence, including meaningful inclusion, youth leadership, and whole-school engagement. ESPN even named the school one of just five standout Unified campuses in the country.

"The program brings our school together in truly incredible ways," Meshell said. "At SWHS, our motto is #allmeansall, and this program exemplifies our dedication to connect and celebrate ALL of our students."

Memorial High School (MHS): Inclusive Excellence in Motion

MHS launched its Unified program during the 2022–23 school year and earned its official Special Olympics National Banner Unified Champion School® designation and banner in recognition of its continued commitment to inclusion. Athletic programs include Unified Bowling, Soccer, Powerlifting, Golf, Cheerleading, and Tennis — each offering students of all abilities the chance to connect through competition.

Social programming has been just as robust, with events like Unified Prom, Spring Fling, and a Valentine’s Day celebration, along with monthly awareness activities and themed events that promote friendship and belonging.

The campus also hosts “Spread the Word Inclusion Week,” a student-led campaign focused on raising awareness about autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and mental health. Students end the week by signing a giant banner committing to inclusion in their school and community.

Mustangs have also taken the message beyond campus — presenting at the George R. Brown Convention Center, speaking at Special Olympics Texas’ Breakfast with Champions, and working with the Malaikah Foundation on community service projects that provide respite care and celebrate caregivers.

Stratford (SHS) and Memorial (MHS) High Schools: Bridging Rivalries Through Unity

Two traditionally competitive campuses — SHS and MHS — teamed up in spring 2024 to host a Unified football game, creating a unique partnership rooted in empathy and inclusion. Students practiced side by side, learned routines together, and came together as one community for a meaningful event that transcended traditional rivalries. The game has since become an annual tradition.

“This was about more than football,” said Raymorris Barnes, principal at SHS. “It was about building connections that last — across teams, across schools, and across all kinds of differences.”

Lisa Weir, principal at MHS, added, “The energy at these games is unforgettable. Our students create something truly powerful. This is the kind of leadership that shapes hearts and minds for a lifetime.”

Northbrook High School (NHS): Laying the Groundwork

At MHS, students and staff are laying the groundwork to grow Unified programming and bring new inclusive opportunities to their community. Early initiatives and collaborations are already sparking momentum, with more events planned in the near future.

"It’s a powerful way to grow leaders and unite both our school and the larger community," said HP Hyder III, principal at Northbrook High School. "Success in life comes down to the relationships we build — and this program helps students develop that essential skill while making a lasting, real impact on the student experience."

As Unified continues to expand across SBISD, one thing is clear: the movement is powered by students, supported by staff, and aligned with everything SBISD stands for — excellence in education and the belief that all means all.

#SBISDProud