Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) has become even safer as its police department recently swore in 11 new officers. Some of the recruits come from other police departments in the area and bring extensive experience in law enforcement. For two of the new hires, this is their first job in law enforcement after graduating from the Houston Community College Police Academy this fall.

“This is significant, as it is not only the largest number of officers ever sworn in at once by our department, but it also brings us closer to placing an officer on every campus, fulfilling Superintendent Blaine’s and the board’s commitment to ensure Every Child in every school is protected,” said Chief of Police Larry Baimbridge.

He also reminded the dozens of current officers in attendance, as well as the 11 new hires, that being a police officer is an identity they carry every day. “The badge comes with great responsibility,” Baimbridge told the roomful of officers. “Wear it with pride, but know you will be held to a higher standard than those who do not.”

During the ceremony at the police department’s headquarters, each new officer was introduced by the chief, who also shared a little about their backgrounds. The new officers were pinned with an SBISD Police Department badge by a family member, colleague, the chief, or, in one case, by Dr. Blaine.

Serving Kids, Building Relationships

Robert Morales comes to SBISD after 39 years with the Houston Police Department. His son, Chase, pinned his new badge. “I chose to come to SBISD because I’m a people person, and I like talking to kids and teachers, and keeping them safe along the way,” said Morales. He also looks forward to building relationships with students so they are not afraid of the police.

Daisy Hernandez and Heidi Olvera are starting their law enforcement careers in SBISD at the recommendation of their friend and current officer, Nancy Avila. “She loves it here,” said Olvera.

“I wanted to work as an officer in a school district so I can be a role model to kids and serve the community,” Olvera added.

“This is a very rewarding career,” said Hernandez. “I want to help kids.” She encourages others interested in becoming a police officer to focus on the physical fitness portion of training to excel on the TCOLE (Texas Commission on Law Enforcement) certification exam.

Another experienced officer joining SBISD is Shane Rooney, a 2007 graduate of Stratford High School. Rooney previously worked with the Harris County Precinct 5 Constable's Office and the county sheriff’s department. Before joining SBISD, he served in Maritime Tactical Operations in the Houston Ship Channel under the umbrella of U.S. Department of Homeland Security. “I look forward to serving here and spending more time with my family,” said Rooney.

Promotions Honored

In addition to the 11 new officers, nine current officers were honored with promotions to the rank of corporal. Badges reflecting their new rank were pinned by family members or colleagues.

“As corporals, you set the tone for those you lead,” said Chief Baimbridge. “You are mentors, problem solvers, and role models. You will inspire confidence and ensure our values are carried out. You make a difference in the lives of others.”

Cindy Garcia, one of the new corporals, has spent all 15 years of her law enforcement career with Spring Branch ISD. “It is an honor and a privilege to work here,” she said. “Spring Branch is like a family to me.” Garcia’s daughter also works as a dispatcher for the district’s police department and has had the opportunity to dispatch her own mother.

All honorees were sworn in by Chief Baimbridge, raising their right hands and repeating the SBISD Police Department pledge.

Welcome to the Family

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Dr. Jennifer Blaine thanked all officers of the SBISD Police Department for their service and emphasized the importance of building relationships with teachers and students. She also thanked the family members in attendance for sharing their loved ones with the district. “We truly are a Spring Branch family,” said Blaine. “You will love it here.”

We welcome these new officers to the SBISD family:

• David Arcizo
• Michael Bryant
• Ricardo Cruz
• Daisy Hernandez
• Robert Morales
• Heidi Olvera
• Jorge Ramos
• Shane Rooney
• Mailow Seto
• Abraham Vanderberry
• Johnny Whang

And, like proud family members, we are #SBISDProud of these officers promoted to corporal:

• Edward Burnett
• Yolanda Edmund
• Cindy Garcia
• Tim Gierke
• Harold Kincaid
• Damian Martinez
• Anthony Prince
• Uhura Sumbry
• Daniel Vela

To learn more about the SBISD Police Department, click here. 

View information on open positions here.

View event photos here.