Spring Branch ISD Featured News

SBISD celebrates ribbon cutting at Agricultural Science Center

September 22, 2025 9:30 AM

Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) marked a milestone this month with the official ribbon cutting for the renovated and expanded Agricultural Science Center, a facility that will continue to shape opportunities for students while reflecting the district’s deep commitment to its community.

The celebration was more than a dedication of new spaces — it was an affirmation of the district’s vision of T-2-4, ensuring Every Child is prepared for a technical, two-year or four-year pathway after graduation.

“This celebration is about much more than bricks and mortar," said Superintendent Jennifer Blaine, Ed.D. “The Agricultural Science Center reflects our vision of T-2-4 and the incredible legacy that SBISD continues to build upon. With the work under the 2017 and 2022 bond programs, we are ensuring our students are equipped to thrive in whatever pathway they choose.”

Bond program progress

The Agricultural Science Center renovation, supported by funding from both the 2017 and 2022 bond programs, is now complete and stands as the first major milestone of the 2022 Bond Program to be delivered. Construction is also well underway on the new Guthrie Center, which broke ground in April 2024 and will provide expanded Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities for students when it opens.

This celebration also marks a major milestone in the district’s 2017 Bond Program, an $898.4 million investment approved by voters.

A celebration of students and community

The program opened with a warm welcome from Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Blaine, who reminded the audience that the day was about more than buildings — it was about the community’s shared vision for its children.

The Spring Branch NJROTC Color Guard, led by Cmdr. William Breland, presented the colors in a solemn flag ceremony. Memorial High School senior and FFA Treasurer Gage Schissler led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moving performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by the Landrum Middle School Choir, directed by Jaime Trigo.

Dr. Blaine then welcomed SBISD Board of Trustees Member David Slattery to speak on behalf of the board.

“When voters said yes to both the 2017 and 2022 bond programs, they said yes to students, to teachers and to the future of SBISD,” Slattery said.

“These new, innovative spaces will allow for expanded programming while still preserving the rich, hands-on agricultural experiences that our students enjoy. This improved facility will prepare students for careers in agriculture while also strengthening our focus on career and technical education. We are so grateful to the community for making this possible.”

Elected officials followed with special recognitions, highlighting how SBISD’s bond projects align with broader goals for education and community growth across the region.

Students at the center

The spotlight then turned to students. Abigail Clark, president of Spring Branch FFA and a senior at Stratford High School, spoke with heartfelt gratitude about what the renovated Agricultural Science Center means for her fellow students.

“For me and my fellow FFA members, this center is more than just a building. It’s a place where we can grow our skills, lead with confidence and prepare for the future,” Clark said. “We are so grateful to our community for investing in us. These new facilities open so many doors for us to develop practical skills we’ll need in the workforce.”

A vision for the future

Guthrie Center Principal Joe Kolenda reflected on the growth of the program.

“Twenty-five years ago, we had fewer than 30 students in agricultural science, and just a handful raising animals,” Kolenda said. “Now we serve more than 200 students every day, and our chapters are among the top in the state. The Agricultural Science Center represents a new chapter for our students and our campus. These renovations and additions will expand learning in ways that reach well beyond the classroom. It’s exciting to imagine the future leaders who will get their start right here.”

A hands-on experience

Finally, the ribbon was cut to applause, marking both the completion of one chapter and the beginning of another. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed refreshments and explored the new spaces. FFA students welcomed visitors to the greenhouse, where many took part in a seed-planting activity — a fitting metaphor for the growth and transformation the Agricultural Science Center represents.