Spring Branch ISD Featured News

 

Hollibrook Elementary Principal Anabel Taylor (left) and Stratford High School Principal Raymorris Barnes (right) were recently named as Spring Branch ISD’s Elementary and Secondary Principals of the Year.

The two 2021 principal recognitions were announced during surprise visits at both campuses. During the visits, SBISD Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Blaine and Board of Trustees President Chris Gonzalez spoke about their immense pride in the two principals, both of whom have showed exemplary leadership in the face of an unusual year.

 

SBISD Principals of the Year are nominated by their principal peers based on several key criteria:

•    Concern for all staff and students and the ability to inspire both of these groups
•    Ability and willingness to work cooperatively with all staff and administrators
•    Proven drive to initiate and implement effective strategies supporting continuous improvement in student performance
•    Ability to work with diverse community groups and all district stakeholders
•    Proven desire for continuous personal and professional growth
•    Ability and willingness to make meaningful contributions to education

 

 

Elementary Principal of the Year
Anabel Taylor, Hollibrook Elementary School

When recently surprised at her campus with the Elementary Teacher of the Year award, Anabel Taylor cried tears of joy as her colleagues surrounded her, cheering and clapping.  

“I am honored, this is an amazing recognition that gives me an opportunity to shine some light on the work our teachers do each and every day,” she said. 

“Teaching gives us an opportunity to ensure a solid academic beginning for our young students. We empower young minds to create a vision for their future, and for a few years we guard and mold that vision. Our work guarantees the beginning of a successful and productive life while providing the best education we can possibly give students.”

Principal Taylor graduated from University of Houston-Downtown as a bilingual teacher and holds a master’s degree from University of Houston. A 21-year veteran of SBISD, she has held several roles in the district including a middle school assistant principal and now, elementary principal. 

“My inspiration, motivation, and passion come from the students we serve. Every day they show us that even when life gets hard, everything is possible,” she said. 

 

 

Secondary Principal of the Year
Raymorris Barnes, Stratford High School

One thing is certain; it has been quite a year for Principal Barnes. Having served in his current role for only one year, Barnes’ light has shined bright as he led his campus through a time of uncertainty, challenges and opportunities. 

“It is an honor to be selected [as Secondary Principal of the Year] in an unprecedented year for all principals,” he said.

“The resolve of our principals is tested every day we go through this pandemic while trying to educate our students and deal with the ongoing personal crisis many families are facing. I am humbled beyond words that my colleagues and friends thought enough of my body of work to nominate me for this award.”

A 10-year SBISD administrator, Morris has previously served in leadership roles as an assistant principal, principal and in central office. He holds a master’s and bachelor’s degree, both from Rice University. 

Barnes credits the Spartan community for campus success. 

“The support and belief from our community that we have an incredible high school…that’s Spartan Pride! I love our potential to get better in every area. We recognize the high number of achievements our students receive annually, but with the right motivation and a few strategic moves, we can definitely push Stratford higher on a national level. Our upside is tremendous, and I am excited to be a part of the new successes of Stratford High School!”