Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Rising to New Heights: Second RISE College Academy Cohort Inducted at Northbrook High School

May 4, 2025 10:30 AM

Northbrook High School (NHS) proudly welcomed its second cohort of students into the RISE College Academy during a celebratory induction ceremony in April. With 32 students inducted for the 2025–26 school year, the program continues to grow, building on the momentum of last year’s inaugural class.

Together, the two cohorts represent a promising future—one that will culminate with the first graduating class of RISE students in 2026.

Representatives from Houston Community College (HCC) joined campus leaders and Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Blaine to honor the students and celebrate their commitment to academic excellence.

RISE—Raiders Invested In Scholarly Excellence—is designed to give students the opportunity to earn up to 60 college credit hours while completing high school, through a combination of HCC courses and University of Texas OnRamps dual enrollment. Each RISE student graduates with both a high school diploma and an associate degree—at no cost to families.

“This is about honoring students who are making a bold and powerful choice,” said NHS Principal HP Hyder III. “They’re choosing to prioritize their education, to take on the challenge of college-level coursework, and to do so without compromising who they are or what they love about the high school experience. I couldn’t be prouder of these Raiders.”

“By joining RISE, these students are saying yes to their futures and no to limitations,” said Dr. Blaine. “They’re making a commitment to themselves—to pursue college with confidence and without compromise. That mindset is the foundation for lifelong success.”

The district expanded its early college offerings this year with the launch of Tiger College Academy (TCA) at Spring Woods High School. Both programs reflect SBISD’s commitment to innovative learning pathways that empower students to earn college credit while staying fully engaged in the high school experience.

“RISE is one of the most unique Early College High School experiences in the region,” said Tyra Walker, Executive Director Postsecondary Outcomes, Counseling and Responsive Services in SBISD. “Too often, early college programs ask students to trade a traditional high school experience for college credit. In SBISD, we don’t ask students to compromise.”

“This expansion demonstrates what’s possible when students are supported in learning their way—and thriving both academically and personally,” said Dr. Blaine.

That commitment to student success has gained regional recognition. Earlier this year, the district was recognized by Good Reason Houston for strong academic outcomes tied to postsecondary readiness.

As the applause rang through the NHS Commons and the ceremony ended, the newest class of RISE Raiders stepped forward—ready to rise and redefine what’s possible for their futures.

Learn more about RISE College Academy and Tiger College Academy.