Spring Branch ISD Featured News

As a member of the First Congregational Church in Houston, Gregory Kelley came across the opportunity to become a SpringBoard mentor in Spring Branch ISD. 

“I was paired with Pablo in 2014 when he was a sixth grader at Spring Woods Middle School,” said Kelley. “I have greatly enjoyed being his mentor. We have learned a lot from each other.” 

Pablo Godinez  is a recent Class of 2022 graduate of Northbrook High School. He has enlisted in the U.S. Army and will begin basic training in August. He plans to attend Texas A&M University or University of Houston. 

As a sixth grader, Godinez recalls his teacher asking if he would be interested in having a mentor. He thought it was “cool” and agreed. 

“Having a mentor has been a great experience,” said Godinez. “I’ve had someone who has shared their real-world experiences with me, which has helped me make more conscious decisions about my future.” 

Kelley notes that he has seen Godinez grow significantly in the past eight years, as he has become “more mature and understanding of the world we live in.” Additionally, Kelley served in the military and is guiding Godinez as he begins his military career.

The pair anticipate staying in contact as Godinez enters a new chapter. 

“I have enjoyed being Pablo’s mentor,” added Kelley. “It is important for students to have mentors, because it helps them become better equipped to enter the world post-graduation. In this case, Pablo has not been the only one learning. I have also learned a lot from him.” 

SBISD’s SpringBoard Mentoring program assists students by offering guidance and encouragement. It promotes the district vision of T-2-4 and aims to provide students with the support needed to navigate their education. 

Interested in becoming a mentor? Complete the interest form for the 2022-2023 school year. 

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