Spring Branch ISD Featured News

At Stratford High School (SHS), the annual "Turn It Gold" game is more than just a sporting event—it's a tribute to those who have significantly contributed to raising awareness about pediatric cancer, the second leading cause of death among children aged one to 14.

“The Turn It Gold game is an initiative I am incredibly proud of,” said Georgia Ashley, co-president of Stratford Turn It Gold and chair of the Student Council Pride and Patriotism Committee. “It’s amazing to see the community unite to raise awareness for such an important cause—particularly one that’s close to my heart.”

Georgia’s cousin, Kali, recently overcame stage 4 kidney cancer.

“The Turn It Gold game demonstrates our community’s strength and our eagerness to make a difference in the lives of others,” Georgia said.

This year's Turn It Gold football game honored three key figures in the Stratford community during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month: School principal Raymorris Barnes, Coach Todd Rankin, and school nurse Shannon Etheridge. Each was presented with a Turn It Gold Bold Award for their courageous support of children with cancer and for raising funds for research.

In the days leading up to the game, Stratford High School’s Turn It Gold team worked closely with the student council to transform the school into a "gold out" environment. This transformation, featuring banners, gold ribbons, and themed activities, provided a powerful visual representation of the school's support for childhood cancer awareness.

“It’s a week of creativity and compassion, allowing the Stratford community to unite around a common cause,” Georgia said.

Georgia’s involvement with the Turn It Gold campaign extends beyond her connection to Kali. It also stems from her family's close relationship with Angela and Mike Dina, the founders of Turn It Gold, who established the initiative to honor their son, Charlie. At age four, Charlie was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma and given a 50% chance of survival.

Georgia recalls the nonprofit’s early days, working with friends to sell Turn It Gold wristbands at lemonade stands. What began as a small grassroots effort has grown into an annual event impacting many in SBISD and beyond, supporting families and children battling the disease.

Looking ahead, Stratford High School hopes to expand the Turn It Gold program. Future plans may include additional events, such as a “gold out” baseball game in the spring, offering more opportunities for the community to support the cause.

Thanks to dedicated students like Georgia and a community passionate about the initiative, Turn It Gold continues to make a lasting impact—not only on the school but also in the fight against pediatric cancer. It embodies SBISD values of persistence, adaptability, communication, and collaboration—traits that define the Stratford student body and SBISD's Core Characteristics of a T-2-4 Ready Graduate.

“Turn It Gold is driven by students who want to make a difference and by compassion for others,” said Georgia.

#SBISDProud

View event photos here.