Spring Branch ISD Featured News

 

“Colonel Alondra Salas has been in the Bandoleras program all four years of high school. She was a Lieutenant officer in her junior year and is now a Colonel in her senior year. She is the first Northbrook Officer since 2020 and truly embodies Defying the Odds and what it means to be a Northbrook Raider.”

- Caitlin Cano, Northbrook High School Teacher

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Alondra Salas is a Northbrook High School (NHS) Senior and Bandoleras Colonel. Respected by her peers and teachers, she demonstrates leadership and selflessness throughout all she does. Learn more about Alondra and why she finds joy in fine arts:

What inspired you to join the Bandoleras? 

The Bandoleras’ grace, determination, and excitement through performance inspired me to join. As these students walk the halls of school, they set the example of what it means to be a Northbrook Raider. The team sticks together and delivers a great amount of effort in all that they do, and I can happily say that my friendships and the sisterhood I’ve experienced have impacted me beyond words. I’m grateful to know that someone has my back and always will support me through anything. To us it's more than a sport; it's our family.

What skills have you acquired that will help you in the future? 

Some skills that I have developed through this program are grit, leadership, and selflessness. I joined my sophomore year and worked diligently to become Lieutenant and ultimately, Colonel. I worked through many late nights and early mornings, and even pushed myself beyond my limits so I could continue the legacy of the Bandoleras.

The hardships never stopped me from leading the team, and it has been such a rewarding experience. As a leader, the Bandoleras look to me as a role model. I lead the team both on and off the field, finding confidence within myself because of this amazing group of girls cheering me along the entire way. I can now push myself out of my comfort zone because of my courage and determination.

What Core Characteristic(s) have you developed most by being part of this activity? 

While Bandoleras exudes all the SBISD the Core Characteristics, the one that I have learned the most from being a Bandolera is being a Communicator and Collaborator. Being a leader on this team has taught me to communicate effectively with my teammates, officers, and directors. I know the team and my directors count on me to collaborate, so we can work together efficiently to solve problems and set the example for future leaders of this team.

Ms. Cano says that you “embody what it means to be a Northbrook Raider.” What does that mean to you?

Embodying a Northbrook Raider is something I strive to do every day and is easily done by just being excited to be at Northbrook – coming with an open mind to become the best version of myself.

What would say to students thinking about joining the Bandoleras? 

I would tell anyone thinking of joining the Bandoleras that it's a great opportunity to grow individually and with a team. The values learned will aid members in all that life throws at you.

Will you pursue dance post-high school? 

After high school, I plan to attend Sam Houston State University where I dream of working closely with their dance team as a way to continue my art and push my passion further while providing myself an outlet that I can call my own. 

What are your post-high school plans?

As I continue to dance, I intend to study Education or Marketing to one day become a high school counselor. 

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SBISD’s Fine Arts programming provides students opportunities to participate in theater, band, orchestra, choir, dance, art and much more. Performing and fine arts provide an important means of communication where thoughts, creativity and expression can be directed to ennoble, uplift, inspire and build.

For questions regarding SBISD Fine Arts, contact SBISD’s Director of Fine Arts or the art instructor at your school.