Spring Branch ISD February 2023

SPRING BRANCH ISD HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

S P R I N G B R A N C H I S D . C OM

SB I SD ATHL E T I CS BEST OF BOTH WOR LDS BIG DREAMS - SMALL TOWN FEEL

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OF A T-2-4 GRADUATE DEVELOPING THE CORE CHARACTERISTICS

We believe the work we do in these four areas supports the development of the Core Characteristics of a T-2-4 Ready Graduate who is:

Dear Spring Branch ISD Families,

The fall semester was one full of accomplishment for our Spring Branch ISD teams: a team tennis state finalist, district championships in volleyball, cross-country and girl’s water polo, and teams that advanced to the playoffs in every sport in which we competed. Individual student-athlete accolades have also been plentiful: as members of the Touchdown Club of Houston’s Pre-Season Team , as a Touchdown Club Defensive Player of the Year Finalist , and as superlative award recipients, All-State and Academic All-State selections, scholarship recipients , and National Letter of Intent commits . The awards have been many! Our student-athletes and their coaches, athletic trainers and managers have done amazing things this fall, and they couldn’t have done it without the support of our families, boosters, teachers, administration, community and school board. That being said, we gauge the success of our athletic programs using multiple measures: athletic excellence, academic excellence, character and leadership development and community service. Our student-athletes come from an assortment of backgrounds and possess varying levels of experience in the sports they have chosen to play, yet all are challenged to be their best in competition, in the classroom, as leaders on their teams and in their schools and as contributors to the greater good, through service projects intended to enrich their communities. Our aim is for our student-athletes and teams to be the best versions of themselves, of which winning is a part, but not the only measure.

• Academically Prepared • Ethical & Service-Minded • Empathetic & Self-Aware • Persistent & Adaptable • Resourceful Problem-Solver • Communicator & Collaborator

And it is our responsibility to use the power of sport to this end.

In the following pages, you will find a range of articles about the work our teams are doing to prepare for competition in our winter sports and the successes our teams have had this fall. These stories represent a small part of a much larger experience of what it means to be a learner, team member, leader and Spring Branch ISD student-athlete. We are proud of the accomplishments showcased within these pages. They truly represent the finest in the region. We are even more proud of our student-athletes and coaches who have endeavored to be their best. I hope you enjoy reading about our kids and programs and will join me in celebrating both. I also encourage you to follow @sbisdathletics and @vypehouston on Twitter for the latest news in SBISD Athletics.

Paige Hershey Executive Director of Athletics

CONTINUE! AMAZING RESULTS FOR STUDENTS & SCHOOLS Dear Spring Branch ISD Families, Jennifer Blaine Superintendent of Schools

SBISD also earned the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) District of Distinction Award this fall for our outstanding fine arts programming. Under our 2017 Bond Program we opened the beautiful new Bunker Hill Elementary and a new classroom wing at Northbrook High School . We also broke ground for the new Memorial Drive Elementary , and this month we broke ground for the new Woodview Elementary . Planning is also underway for our new Guthrie Center , expanded Ag Farm facilities and other projects under the CTE-focused 2022 Bond! My commitment to our kids and schools remain strong - and that commitment inspires me to ask you to join me in advocating for them. To continue to see the results we’ve seen and provide the kind of education that Spring Branch is known for, I need your help. We’ve always been a community that recognizes the power education has to transform lives and futures. Unfortunately, in SBISD, that future is being threatened by the current public school funding model. We need further reform of the state’s funding formulas for us to continue to provide the excellent educational experiences you expect and our children deserve. This year alone, the state will take $85 million in taxpayer dollars from our schools. The cost is too high for our children. Since 2004, the state school finance system’s impact on SBISD’s operations has been challenging and will continue to be so without change. During the 88th Legislative Session in Austin, we need the voices of our community to be heard. Please join me in advocating for the state to adjust the current school funding formulas and invest into public education - for Every Child.

As we celebrate the start of the second semester, I thank you - our students, families and community, for your ongoing support and partnership for the benefit of Every Child – we truly are better together. When I became Superintendent, I challenged the system to focus with clarity on our priorities of literacy, numeracy, student supports, Career and Technical Education (CTE) and the needs of our English Learners. That focus has paid off. We began the school year celebrating strong student achievement and SBISD campus ratings, and the amazing results have continued. SBISD was recently named a 2023 Large District Finalist for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Award! This prestigious award, presented by H-E-B, recognizes school districts based on the following criteria: • Commitment to student achievement through innovative programs • Parent/Community involvement • Professional development opportunities for teachers and administrators This recognition is a testament to the tireless work of our teachers, administrators, staff, school board, and community. SBISD’s application for the 2023 H-E-B Excellence in Education Award focused on the district’s strong academic results, demonstrating the highest levels of student achievement in recent years on College Board®, ACT® and STAAR assessments. It also highlighted the district’s ongoing commitment to its long-standing T-2-4 vision for Every Child and the community-developed Core Characteristics of a T-2-4 Ready Graduate - the skills and attributes we commit to developing in our students as they move through the system. Throughout the application, the support and engagement of parents and community members showcased SBISD’s Collective Greatness. Other 2023 Large District Finalists include Arlington ISD, Corpus Christi ISD, Garland ISD and Tomball ISD. The winner will be announced at the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards ceremony on April 30 in San Antonio, Texas.

Learn more at: www.springbranchisd.com/schoolfinance

Jennifer Blaine, Ed.D. SBISD Superintendent of Schools

Pregame

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Bryan Espinoza, Northbrook

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SPOTLIGHT ARTICLES

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All Means All Memorial High School Northbrook High School Spring Woods High School Stratford High School

SPRING BRANCH ISD HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

S P R I N G B R A N C H I S D . C OM

SB I SD ATHL E T I CS BEST OF BOTH WOR LDS BIG DREAMS - SMALL TOWN FEEL

on the cover Photo by Bradley Collier

BIG DREAMS - SMALL TOWN FEEL: The Spring Branch ISD 2023 Fall/Winter Edition highlights the best the district has to offer. The cover stars include (top row) Sofia Mazzucato, Bryan Espinoza, Hannah Jennings, Grayson Lincecum, (below) Emerson Guevara, Skyler George, Deisi Huerta and Keanu Dawes.

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Feature

S P R I N G WO O D S R E C O G N I Z E D A S A N A T I O N A L U N I F I E D C H AMP I O N S C H O O L MEA S ALL ALL \\ Matthew Ogle

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has successfully integrated inclusion into every aspect of their campus,” said Special Olympics Texas East Region Associate Executive Director AJ Edenzon. “With this honor, they continue to inspire surrounding schools and districts to build their involvement and engagement with Unified Champion Schools.” Unified Champion Schools® use a unique approach that incorporates Special Olympics Unified Spor ts® (where students with and without disabilities train and compete as teammates), Inclusive Youth Leadership, and Whole School Engagement activities that empower youth to be agents of change in their communities. Students with and without intellectual disabilities work together alongside educators school and community. The Special Olympics Texas UCS program is celebrating over 15 years and is active on hundreds of campuses. “I was inspired to make and administrators to positively impact their

School is one of five Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools recognized nationally by ESPN. Spring Woods has been a Unified Champion School for four years and competes in 12 Unified Spor ts including, Unified Football , Cross Country, Track and Field, Volleyball , Basketball , Soccer, Golf, Tennis, Robotics, Ar t , Dance and Cheer. The program star ted in 2019 and has grown into the school ’s most valued initiative. “We are proud of how Spring Woods High School

a National Banner School and received ESPN Top 5 School recognition. “It is so exciting that the Unified Spor ts movement is getting more recognition in our area,” said SWHS principal Jennifer Collier. “ There are so many valuable components to having Unified Programs on campus, and I feel ex tremely honored and excited that SWHS is able to showcase the impact that Unified Spor ts can have on a child, the campus and the community.” Spring Woods High

SPRING WOODS HIGH SCHOOL HAS BEGUN TO RECEIVE NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR ITS PERSISTENT COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION WITHIN THE REALM OF THE SCHOOL’S ATHLETIC AND ARTS PROGRAMS. Most notably, SWHS has been honored as a Special Olympics National Banner Unified Champion School , which is achieved by demonstrating its pledge to include students of all abilities in the campus community, whether it be through spor ts or other activities. With that , the Tigers were recently named

Spring Woods finds value in including others, sharing their gifts with each other, being kind and sharing a genuine love and excitement for spor ts, ar ts and being an SWHS Tiger.” What will the future look like for the Unified Spor ts program at SWHS? “Moving forward, I hope that Unified Programming is even more student-led, student-driven,” Collier said. “It is something that will live on, long past my reign as principal at SWHS. When we look back 20 years from now, I hope that we see this movement made a difference in students’ lives and in the community. Fur thermore, I also hope that the phrase ‘All means All ’ will still be visibly alive and well at Spring Woods.”

Unified a big priority because we initially stated as a school that , ‘All means All ’, and that was false,” said Collier. “If you had the right skill set or were involved in something, then it didn’ t genuinely impact every child on campus. When we began to focus on ways that all kids could be involved at Spring Woods, the statement ‘All means All ’ became more power ful.” Principal Collier ’s initiation of the inclusive oppor tunities for everyone to be involved as a school community. “ The response to the program is par t of the fabric of who we are now,” she said. “Every spor t , every club and every organization, builds into this component of the work that they currently do. Everyone at program has cer tainly impacted the students of SWHS and provided countless more

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All Abilities • Ages 7 years to collegiate • Boys and Girls 14690 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77079 • (281) 497-7570 www.parisischool.com/memorialac

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Memorial

Abigail Tomaski

# 77024 The

Camden Helme

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FALL WRAP

VOLLEYBALL

Star ‘Stangs Sophie Harlan District First Team Reese Haley District Second Team Jordan Heath District Second Team Lizzie Cooper District Honorable Mention

The Memorial volleyball team was an inexperienced group, coming off a District 17-6A runner-up finish in 2021 as several ‘Stangs graduated. The Mustangs finished six th in a competitive district in 2022 and will look for sophomore Reese Haley to be the future of the program moving forward.

Jordan Heath

Baker Berg

Baker Berg, Sophie Harlan, Elizabeth Cooper, Reese Haley and Jordan Heath

FOOTBALL

The Accolades Lee Fowler District First Team, DB Ryan Kearns District First Team, DE Grayson Lincecum Defensive PotY Finalist Touchdown Club of Houston Spor tsmanship Class 6A Finalist District First Team, LB Kyle Siblik District First Team, WR Max Wang District First Team, OL Allan Zidane District First Team, P

The Memorial Mustangs were Spring Branch ISD’s top football program in 2022 , going 8-4 overall and finishing second in District 17-6A. Memorial took down Westside in the first round of the postseason before bowing out to Katy – the eventual State Semifinalists. QB Chase Goodwin led the offense along with RB Ethan Spears and WR Kyle Siblik . The defense was anchored by DE Ryan Kearns, LB Grayson Lincecum and DB Lee Fowler. Memorial ’s signature win came against neighborhood-rival Stratford, 23-16.

Lee Fowler, Zidane Allan, Grayson Lincecum, Ryan Kearns and Kyle Siblik

Ryan Kearns

Lee Fowler

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CROSS COUNTRY

Run This Town Huntley Buckingham

The Memorial Mustangs boys and girls cross country teams finished second at the District 17-6A meet . The boys were led by the likes of Brian Jones (bronze), Brad Youssef (6th), Stefano Ferrier (8th) Ian McCormack (9th) and Grayson Smith (17th). Addison Scott (4th), Huntley Buckingham (5th), Josephine Dufour (10th) Kassidy Kitchel (13th) and Lucy Simmons (18th) led the girls team. The ‘Stangs boys finished 10th in the Regional Meet as Jones paced Memorial with a 45th-place finish. The girls finished 12th as Kassidy Kitchel led the way.

District First Team Josephine Dufour District First Team Stefano Ferrier District First Team Brian Jones District First Team Ian McCormack District First Team Addison Scott District First Team Brad Youssef District First Team

The 2022 Cross Country Boys Team

The 2022 Cross Country Girls Team

TEAM TENNIS

WATER POLO

In the first year of UIL Water Polo, the Memorial Mustang girls team won their district and reached the Regional Quar ter finals in its inaugural season. The boys advanced to the Area Round. Coach Jason Mauss was led by Olivia Wilkinson and Paige Koehn, while the boys were led by Sebastian Warren and Sam Frank . The Accolades GIRLS Olivia Wilkinson Co-MVP Paige Koehn Outstanding Offensive Player Jaqueline Deboben District First Team Sophia Gray District First Team Sydney Nguyen District First Team Bella Norton District First Team BOYS Sebastian Warren Outstanding Offensive Player Sam Frank Newcomer of the Year

Britton Buckingham, Sofia Mazzucato, Tara Ahmadi and Steven Scholz

In a shocking turn of events, the Memorial team tennis program reached the UIL State Tournament… again. The ‘Stangs were the State Runner-Ups to Westwood, but it marked the program’s 15th State Tournament appearance. Leading the way were Britton Buckingham, Steven Scholz , Tara Ahmadi and Sofia Mazzucato.

Cameron Brenton District First Team Roman Joubert District First Team Reid Vandervoort District First Team

Olivia Wilkinson

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M E MO R I A L ’ S MA Z Z U C A T O B R I N G S D E D I C A T I O N T O PA R AMO U N T T E AM WIN BORN TO \\ Matthew Ogle

their conference a lot… the Big East ,” she said. “I really love the team, the coaches and the school environment . I’m sure to improve my game with the talented program they have there.” Mazzucato returned to Memorial for her senior year after concentrating on her academics and her game. “Being home-schooled really helped me with a travelling more and playing international tournaments. It just helped me have more cour t time to practice and play elite competition. But , I’m really happy to be back at Memorial for my senior year with my friends.” With the team tennis season behind her, she now is focused on the spring. “I really like that tennis as an individual one for singles,” said Mazzucato. “I know I can have more control of what I’m doing in singles, but with team play, the outcome can be really amazing with good chemistry. I can’ t wait to get star ted.” As one of the best to have played for the Red and White, Mazzucato is a great representation of what coach Booth has built over the years… humble confidence and class. lot of my schoolwork ,” said Mazzucato. “It was pretty fun, since I was can be a team spor t with doubles, as well

MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL TENNIS HAS BECOME SYNONYMOUS WITH EXCELLENCE UNDER THE DIRECTION OF COACH BUDD BOOTH. One of the premier tennis programs the state of Texas has to offer, the Mustangs have advanced through the UIL postseason on a consistent basis and has a pair of State Titles (2017, 2019) to show for their hard work . Their most recent season was no different , as Memorial finished their campaign as the 6A State Runner-Ups. The standout of the Mustangs’ talented tennis team in 2022 was senior Sofia Mazzucato — a 5-Star recruit who is the tenth-ranked player in Texas according to Tennis Recruiting. She, along with senior Steven Scholz , was a critical piece in Memorial ’s success this fall. Tennis is in her blood, dating back two generations. “My dad and grandpa are really suppor tive of my tennis,” Mazzucato said. “ They both played tennis and have really inspired me to reach my goals and keep pushing myself to accomplish whatever I set my mind to.” The tennis stalwar t recently signed to play her college tennis at Xavier University in Cincinnati (OH) and is looking forward to her nex t step. “I love that Xavier wins

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2023 Girls Soccer

Blake Justice

Berkeley Keller

Sean Fargo

Sarah Shields

Blake Justice, Matthew Janecek, Ethan Soares-Rodriguez and Sean Rodriguez

T H E ‘ S T ANGS AR E R E ADY T O S T R E T CH T H E I R L E GS T H I S W I N T E R . T H E MEMOR I A L G I R LS BA S K E T BA L L T E AM CRU I S E D T HROUGH D I S T R I C T P L A Y , WH I L E T H E BOYS C L I NCH E D A P OS T S E A SON S P O T . T H E G I R LS SOC C E R T E AM I S A LWA YS A P OWE R AND T H E BOYS SHOU LD A LSO S E E P L A YO F F A C T I ON . WA T CH OU T F OR T H E A T H L E T E S I N T H E P OO L A S T H E Y W I L L P U T I N T H E WORK T O MAK E T H E R E D AND WH I T E F A I T H F U L PROUD . STABLE THE Riley McCloskey

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2023 Boys Soccer

Adelhia Ghonda

Sean Rodriguez

Romain Joubert

Aiden Madaffri

Kendall Lyons, Abigail Tomaski, Riley McCloskey and Nicki Polocheck

Memorial Water Polo & Swim Teams

GREAT THINGS ARE HAPPENING IN SBISD! SPOTLIGHT ONOUR STUDENTS

Students continue to exceed state and national averages in ACT scores A recent report shows that Spring Branch ISD high school students exceeded Texas and national average scores on the ACT, a standardized test used for college admissions. According to the report, SBISD’s Class of 2022 had higher average scores than the state and the national averages in every subject and composite scores over the past five years. They also had a far higher percentage of students meeting ACT college readiness indicators. As an example, 91% of SBISD students testing met ACT’s college readiness benchmark in English, compared to 52% in Texas and 53% nationwide. A total of 433 students from the 2022 graduating class took the ACT. Since 2006, SBISD has annually outperformed both the state and national composite scores for each graduating class.

J. Landon Short Mini Grant funds help SBISD teachers create mind-opening experiences for students Educators across Spring Branch ISD are dedicated to elevating students’ learning experiences, and programs like the J. Landon Short Mini Grants for Educators have allowed teachers to engage students in innovative activities that expand their Limitless Curiosity. Over the last 22 years, the program has awarded more than 900 grants. This year, $21,687.73 in grants were awarded to 34 grant winners thanks to the generous support of program sponsors First Community Credit Union, Spring Branch Education Foundation, Spring Branch Management District and interest earned through from the Robert and Janice McNair Foundation Program endowment. Learn how you can be a Mini Grant sponsor. Email us: partner@springbranchisd.com .

Former debate students continue legacy through teaching Victoria Beard , Director of Forensics at SWHS, poses with former students, Harry Yu , Director of Forensics at MHS on her left, and Carlos Diaz , Director of Forensics at SHS on her right.

Recognized as a District of Distinction for Visual Arts

For the second year in a row, Spring Branch ISD has been awarded the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) District of Distinction Award for its leadership in promoting visual arts within the district and the community. More than 1,200 districts were eligible to apply for the TAEA Visual Arts Award, and only 59 received recognition. SBISD was honored at the organization’s annual conference this fall along with District Visual Art Coordinator Sally Doyle as Outstanding Art Educator in Supervision/Administration for 2022. The SBISD Board of Trustees recognized both achievements during their regular meeting in November. “I am proud of all our art teachers have accomplished,” said Doyle. “Their dedication to our students and art advocacy is astounding. I celebrate alongside them this wonderful award.” Congratulations to these amazing educators! Visit the SBISD Performing & Fine Arts website to learn more about district programming. www. springbranchisd.com/about/departments/academic performance/connective-academics/finearts

SBISD high school students say Howdy from Texas A&M as they explore engineering careers To explore engineering careers and opportunities, Spring Branch ISD high school students visited Texas A&M University’s Zachry Engineering Education Complex on Nov. 3.

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themand showing themhow to see officers as peoplebefore authoritative figures.

To further her knowledge, Officer Perez is currently pursuing amaster’s degree in criminal justice fromtheUniversity of North Texas.

‘It’s not the plane, it’s the pilot,’ Officer Georgina Perez encourages others to look past challenges While student-teaching to become a bilingual teacher, Georgina Perez found that many children needed help. Perez decided to make a career change and transitioned from education to criminal justice. She first worked in corporate law, but ultimately joined the police academy at the University of Houston Downtown. Perez notes that becoming a police officer has been her best career decision. Today, she is part of the Spring Branch ISD Police Department. She started her career with SBISD four years ago at Northbrook High,

“Working in SBISDmotivated me to further my education,” said Officer Perez. “My leadership allows me to pursue training to further my professional career, which gives me the tools to provide the best to those I serve.”

After graduation, she hopes to continue her career in SBISD and ultimately transition into a leadership role.

When asked who motivates her, Officer Perez refers back to her 11th grade math teacher, Mr. Choi.

“Mr. Choi motivated me to be brave and believe I could be successful despite the challenges we faced. He and his wife have been my mentors for the last 14 years. They have always pushed me to continue my education and even helped me pay for my college tuition and books.” Their generosity inspired Officer Perez to pursue a public service career and she hopes to one day be a source of motivation for someone, as Mr. Choi has been for her. Officer Perez likes to remind people that “it’s not the plane, it’s the pilot,” and we should not look at the difficulties or challenges, but only at our skill set and how we can use that to be successful. Collective Greatness encourages Carmelita Soto to step out of comfort zone and explore newhorizons In 2015, Carmelita Soto began working in Spring Branch ISD as a bus assistant. However, her coworkers constantly encouraged her to become a bus driver. To become a bus driver, Soto had to earn a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a special document required to operate large and heavy vehicles. Soto notes that she was eager to become a bus driver, but obtaining the license was a challenge. Soto’s SBISD teamwas determined to help her obtain her CDL and provided her with training to excel in the road test with the Texas Department of Public Safety. She received a permit to start training in May 2019 and she received her CDL in July 2019.

later transitioned to Stratford High and then to Memorial High. Officer Perez is now at the District Alternative Education Program (DAEP) campus, where she collaborates with administrators to provide disciplinary support.

“I heard that students at DAEP needed help, and I wanted to support them,” said Officer Perez. “I attended Title 1 schools and was an ‘at-risk youth’ growing up. But through mentors and positive role models, I was able to succeed. I want to be that positive role model in the students’ lives and show them that they are not bad kids, but are just making bad choices.” Officer Perez says the best part about her job is that she continues to help students, as she would as a teacher, but now in a police uniform. She enjoys seeing students smile but she especially enjoys educating them on how she supports and promotes a healthy learning environment for Every Child. Officer Perez has faced challenges in her position. Shementions that at times students are not interested in listening to an officer. However, she has learned to de-escalate situations andencourage themto adopt a morepositive attitude. She strives to change students’ perspectives on lawenforcement by connectingwith

In 2016, Francis joined Spring Branch ISD as assistant director of Child Nutrition Services (CNS) and in January 2022, he became director of CNS. “Each job has helped me achieve my career goals,” said Francis. “Without each of these opportunities, I do not think I would be in the role I am in today.” In 2018, Francis was elected to the Texas Association for School Nutrition’s board of directors and served as president during the 2020-21 school year. Francis is motivated by his family. His mother was a first grade teacher at Houston ISD for 31 years and his father worked in public relations for most of his career. Francis notes that they laid the groundwork for who he is. “My mom’s ability to teach and educate others in and out of the classroom has been a daily requirement as a leader in my career,” added Francis. “My father’s ability to develop and build relationships, while ensuring that operational services are provided at their highest

Today, she is a bus driver and actively helps train those who are looking to obtain their CDL. By training others, Soto

hopes to pay it forward, as she is very grateful for all the

encouragement she received from her team.

“My best career decision was getting out of my comfort zone and being challenged,” said Soto. “I overcamemy worries and fears of taking on responsibility and became a bus driver, something that I takemuch pride in.” The team’s Collective Greatness is what motivates Soto to excel in her position. She notes that they often leverage their individual strengths to overcome challenges. She knows that she is part of something bigger at SBISD. Soto continues to learn and grow as a professional and advises others to embrace change and always be a team player. She mentions that SBISD is always offering opportunities to gain new skills and further your career. “I am happy to be part of such a wonderful team,” concluded Soto. “To all those who just joined SBISD, I can assure you that your experience here will be rewarding.” ‘Think outside the cafeteria,’ SBISD’s Child Nutrition Services director follows life advice and creates endless possibilities As a child, Michael Francis was captivated by the food industry. He loved to cook and enjoyed seeing how happy food made people. When Francis enrolled at the University of Houston, choosing his major was no quest. He was sure he wanted to study Hotel and Restaurant Management. Francis notes that throughout his career he has had many positions that have shaped him as a professional and have allowed him to grow and learn. He began his journey at Pappadeaux restaurant as a host and made his way through Luby’s Cafeteria and Katy ISD, where he worked in Nutrition and Food Services. Francis later became a Child Nutrition Program specialist at the Region 4 Education Service Center.

quality is what makes up my foundation today as a CNS professional.” Years later, the food industry continues to inspire Francis. He is dedicated to providing the best customer experience possible for students,

staff, families and the community. He mentions that his team also drives his inspiration, as they teach him new things daily. “You never stop growing as a professional,” said Francis. “In 2008, RonaldWright, then-vice president at Luby’s Cafeteria, said to me, ‘I can teach you all the tools in the world, but the greatest thing about teaching you those tools is that I cannot take them away from you.’”

That piece of advice still holds true to Francis today.

“I love to tell others to ‘think outside the cafeteria,’” he concluded. “SBISD has provided me the opportunity to think differently and more importantly, granted me the ability to create endless possibilities as a leader.”

Northbrook

David Ordim

Dav id earned the pres t igious Brothers in Arms Scholarship recogni z ing s tudent athl etes in Hous ton who grew up in a s ingl e -parent home . The f oundat ion was es tabl ished by Hous ton l egends War ren Moon , Vince Young and Andre Ware . Four Hous ton-area s tudent athl etes were honored wi th a $7, 500 scholarship and were recogni zed at the Hous ton Spor ts Awards .

# Always a Raider Once a Raider

Arianna Dinic, Jaeydie Martinez and Lanyah David

FALL WRAP

THE BIG WIN

The headline this fall for Nor thbrook High was the Raiders’ 27-14 win over Aldine in the second week of the season. The win snapped the longest active losing streak of 42 games in Texas high school football. Coach Andres Gomez is building a can-do culture inside the locker room. The volleyball picked up three wins in 2022 and were led by Angie Romero and Madison Campbell. Hugo Cano and Wendoly Hernandez led their respective cross country teams.

Carlos Avila

2022 Northbrook Football

Thaily Castillo

Nicole Illescas

The 2022 Raider Cross Country Team

Madison Campbell

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Northbrook

Brian Fernandez

Deisi Huerta

Dalia Nambo

2023 Northbrook Tennis

Deisi Huerta

Christian Pineda

Anthony Hickman

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E S P I N O Z A T H E A N C H O R T O N O R T H B R O O K S O C C E R LEGACY LEAVING HIS \\ Matthew Ogle

it ’s always our last game. Making the playoffs last year was a huge memory of mine. That has pushed us to make that dream of going fur ther a reality.” Considering this is his senior season, Espinoza is looking to leave a legacy. “As a senior, it is very upsetting knowing that it ’s my last year,” he said. “But , I hope to accomplish leaving high school with a soccer scholarship and knowing my team and I accomplished something greater. As a team, I know we want to win district , and I hope to motivate and encourage the underclassmen by being a role model before I leave them.”

have played a huge role in our strong star t . Therapy and great recovery sessions after games, and communication within the team and with our coach on and off the field have been really great . The main thing that is working is the different skill sets on the training ground. Our coach has motivated us to work harder this year, and we’re staying focused on what ’s nex t every game. “I expect every single one of us to give our all in every game. I intend for us to make a statement for ourselves, and our school , as we represent it . Some games will be tough but I expect us to work harder and play like

as sharp under the three posts. Most people don’ t know what it ’s like and will criticize you, but that ’s where your mindset has to be strong. Dedication, handling, footwork and having technical awareness are crucial for me to succeed.” The Raiders had a solid district season last year, advancing to the postseason, where they were eliminated in the first round by Lamar. For the senior, he hopes this year will be even more successful. “ This year is definitely different for us Raiders,” said Espinoza. “Culture and discipline between the team

IN FOOTBALL, THE QUARTERBACK CALLS THE PLAYS. IN BASKETBALL, THE POINT GUARD SETS THE TONE. IN BASEBALL, THE CATCHER IS THE LEADER. In soccer, the goalie is the alpha. Luckily for Nor thbrook soccer, they have Bryan Espinoza protecting the net . Playing in goal is an incredibly stressful position to be in. However, Espinoza has shown his penchant to rise to the challenge for the Raiders, making some clutch saves to keep his team in contention. “Confidence plays a huge role in being a goalkeeper,” Espinoza said. “Without confidence, you won’ t be

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Northbrook

Anthony Meza

Sophia Sanchez

The 2023 Girls Soccer Team

The 2022 Northbrook Swim Team

Camila Tavarez

The stars of the 2023 Soccer Team

Eda Rosales

Yousef Saber

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Arianna Dinic

Angel Ramos

2023 Boys Basketball

Jalen Barnett

Maria Ruiz

Anthony Ayala

George Roque

NOR T HBROOK H I GH SCHOO L I S R E ADY T O R I D E T H I S W I N T E R . T H E R A I D E RS H A V E S E T T H E BAR H I GH F OR T H EMS E LV E S T H I S W I N T E R W I T H HOP E S O F MAK I NG SOME NO I S E I N D I S T R I C T P L A Y AND B E YOND . T H E SOC C E R T E AMS LOOK T O C ARRY T H E BANN E R F OR NOR T HBROOK O V E R T H E N E X T F E W MON T HS . CH E C K OU T T H E B I G S T ARS ON C AMP US . RAIDER UP Grey Mealey

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Spring Woods

Sean Wells

# Tiger Hold that

Andrea Gallegos

THE LEGENDS OF THE FALL FALL WRAP The Tigers competed hard this Fall on the football field, volleyball and tennis cour ts and the cross country trails. Spring Woods was named a Touchdown Club of Houston Spor tsmanship Class 6A Finalist in the Fall. Spring Woods football had a signature win over rival Nor thbrook and the girls cross country finished fifth at the district meet . The volleyball team had a pair of district wins and were led by Noelle Berry, Morgan Banks, Adriana Castro and Ingrid Bulux . The Spring Woods boys and girls Water Polo teams reached the postseason in its first season. Leading the way for coach Loren Gardner were girls Sonya Stelmak (Newcomer of the Year), Daniela Quiroga, Alicia Schmidt and Matil Spears, who earned first-team, all-district honors. The boys were led by first teamer Taro Valverde.

Nicole Olivera

Matil Spears

Team Tennis

Matt Emerson

Santiago Claudio

2022 Volleyball

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Spring Woods

2022 Football

Noelle Berry

Valeska Suarez

Brittany Bargas

2022 Cross Country

Leonel Pivaral

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for the final stretch of the season with hopes of leaving a legacy and making a splash in the postseason meets. She is the undisputed leader of the Tigers. “I think everyone looks prett y strong,” he said. “Our relays are real ly sol id. It ’s a lot about communication and I think our team excels at that . We al l connect That ’s just what it takes to be a par t of the family business. S P R I N G WO O D S ’ J E N N I N G S T O C A R R Y F AM I L Y L E G A C Y I N T H E WA T E R BUSINESS THE FAMILY \\ Matthew Ogle real ly wel l .” Outside of the natatorium, Jennings is involved in Spring Woods High theatre, as a par t of the tech team. While swimming remains her main focus, she thrives on staying busy in the pool and out of it . It ’s all about balance. “I’ ll have school , which runs well after the last bell ,” she said. “ Then it ’s off to club practice (for the Houston Bridge Bats) until 7 pm. I’ ll do homework , eat and go to bed. I don’ t really get too much free time but I will make it a point to squeeze in theatre. It takes a lot of commitment .”

SWIMMING IS THE JENNINGS’ FAMILY BUSINESS, AND BUSINESS HAS BEEN GOOD. Spring Woods’ Hannah Jennings has been around a pool for as long as she can remember. “Both my parents swam when they were younger,” Jennings said. “I’ve been swimming since I was three years old. All my brothers did it as well , and as I got older it just progressed from Summer League to Club swimming. That took it to a different level.” She follows her older brothers — Josh (26), Jake (22), and Samuel (21) – who also swam for Spring Woods. Notably, Samuel earned a bronze medal in the 2020 UIL State Meet , prior to swimming in college for Grand Canyon University. It can be difficult to live up to the legacy established by those before you, which is something that Jennings has experienced. However, she has always used it as motivation to push herself fur ther. “It [competing with a legacy] has been kind of a struggle… everyone knowing you as your brother ’s younger sister,” said Jennings. “Obviously, I’m not to the level that he was, yet . But , you know, I’m getting there and I’m trying to be like him [Samuel] and get better. I want to make my own name for myself.” Jennings is preparing

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T H E S PR I NG WOODS T I G E RS AR E LOOK I NG T O H A V E SOME SUC C E SS T H I S W I N T E R A S T I G E R HOOP S , SOC C E R AND SW I MME RS T AK E T H E I R MARKS . H E R E AR E SOME O F T H E WUND E RK I NDS O F T H E W I N T E R WHO W I L L S T E A L T H E H E AD L I N E S . POUNCE READY TO Spring Woods

Madeline Blissard

2023 Boys Water Polo/Swim

2023 Girls Hoops

Will Patton

2023 Girls Soccer

2023 Boys Basketball

Dylan Nguyen

Ciara Casco

Aiden Gicome

2023 Girls Water Polo/Swim

2023 Boys Soccer

Melody Nowling

Jonathan Revoloria

Isabella Hernandez

in this project and for allowing our community to have a voice.” BOND PROGRAMS UPDATE SHAPING SPRING BRANCH

a renewed sense of energy. I am thankful to our community and all who made this happen.” Dana Johnson, BHE principal, also spoke about her enthusiasm for the new 110,00 square-foot replacement school, which is a significant upgrade from the original 58,385-square-foot building. “This grand opening represents the start of something new,” said Johnson. “Our students and staff are ecstatic for our new school. I am grateful for all who were involved

After the event, attendees had the opportunity to tour the new campus. They saw that the transformed BHE brings an innovative approach, while still blending in with its surrounding sites. Courtyards and the outdoor learning plaza highlight the surrounding community and allow students to enjoy the natural scenery.

Bunker Hill Elementary As part of the 2017 Bond, the previous 58,385-square-foot Bunker Hill Elementary was replaced by a new 110,00-square foot building designed to accommodate 750 students. “Our new building has a variety of collaborative spaces that will be helpful for teaching small groups,” said Julie Johnson, Bunker Hill assistant principal. “Our students, teachers and staff will greatly benefit from the new features.” opening of the rebuilt Bunker Hill Elementary. Spring Branch ISD Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Blaine, Board of Trustees President Chris Earnest and Moira Lail, BHE PTA president, addressed attendees and expressed their excitement for the new building. “I’m overwhelmed with excitement for all the teachers and staff!” said Earnest. “Our students are thrilled about the new space, you can feel On Wednesday, Sept. 14, SBISD celebrated the official grand

The new building also includes learning pods and shared spaces

that create a collaborative environment that promotes

student learning. Attendees were impressed by the library, which is at

Bunker Hill Elementary

Northbrook High School

the heart of the campus to ensure students have access to a world of books and knowledge to stimulate their minds. “I’m so excited for the new school after seeing it be rebuilt,” said Stuart, a fifth grade student at BHE. “ I have been enjoying all the new spaces and like me, I knowmy classmates are very happy about the new Bunker Hill.” On Wednesday, Sept. 28, Spring Branch ISD hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating Northbrook High School’s (NHS) new classroom wing. The new wing is part of the 2017 Bond Program, approved by 80% of voters in Nov. 2017. The 2017 Bond Program continues the transformation of district facilities that began with the 2007 Bond Program. The addition and renovations at NHS were a collaboration between PBK Architects and the Project Advisory Team, comprised of staff, parents and community members. Satterfield Northbrook High School

Program,” said Earnest. “I am grateful as it not only enhances educational opportunities, but it also has a positive effect on school pride and identity.” The event included performances by the NHS band, the Bandoleras dance team, choir and orchestra. Dr. HP Hyder III, NHS principal, expressed his gratitude for the new wing and improvements across the building which include a new school entry with a secure vestibule, HVAC upgrades, roof replacements, restroom renovations and new classroom door hardware. Additional lighting, a renovated gym floor and a synthetic turf practice field are among the athletic upgrades. “The new addition and renovations bring innovative learning to our students,” said Dr. Hyder. “I thank the community for making this beautiful addition to Northbrook possible.”

& Pontikes Construction served as the general contractor for the project. To kick off the ceremony, a welcome video showcased the new classroom wing and building renovations, including the added furniture and artistic wall graphics. SBISD Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Blaine delivered welcoming remarks and introduced the NJROTC Color Guard, led by Commander Jerry Coufal, NHS National Honor Society member Zoe Rajas, who led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Lastameon Cunningham-Johnson, NHS senior class president, who led the Texas Pledge. Board of Trustees president Chris Earnest, Sybil Sanchez, NHS PTA president, and Audiel Espitia, NHS teacher, addressed attendees and conveyed how thrilled they were for the new wing and its unique design. “This new addition was made possible by our community and their support of the 2017 Bond

After the official ribbon-cutting, attendees were invited to tour

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the new wing. They had an opportunity to visit the two

science labs and 18 classrooms that were added to accommodate the growing student population. The new addition combines innovative design with vibrant and bright style. The open space encourages collaboration and promotes relationship-building among students and staff. “The natural light across the new wing brings renewed energy,” added Earnest. “This is a new chapter for Northbrook and I am excited to see everything it will bring.” Spring Branch ISD students, staff and community members gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking and planned construction of the new Memorial Drive Elementary (MDE) on Tuesday, Dec. 6. The 91,263 square-foot building will replace the 58,965 square-foot building, which opened its doors in 1949. Dr. Jennifer Blaine, SBISD Superintendent of Schools, kicked off the program as she welcomed attendees and introduced Cub Scout Pack 641, who led the Flag Ceremony and the Pledge of Allegiance. Memorial Drive Elementary School

Memorial Drive Elementary School

SBISD Board of Trustees president Chris Earnest also expressed his excitement for the new building. “We will soon be greeted by a brand new school, where there will be new life, new energy and new excitement brought to the campus and into our community,” said Earnest. “I am thrilled for this project to be kicked off.” The MDE Choir sang Feliz Navidad and attendees cheered before hearing from teachers Ginger Butler and Amanda Gerber, who is also an MDE former student. “As a teacher, I have continued to be a part of this community and its traditions,” said Gerber. “I look forward to the new school, but know that the great MDE spirit of inspiration, friendship, community and love will live on and I am so proud to be a part of it!” To conclude the ceremony, community members and alumni took photos together as they reminisced on the great memories they shared at MDE.

The rebuilt MDE will serve 550 students and bring new

upgrades to enhance the learning experience for students and staff. The campus will move off-site to SBISD’s South Transition Campus while the new school is built. “We are moving out of our home, but we will come back to a brand new and improved home,” said Thayer Hutcheson, MDE principal. “Thank you to everyone who has been part of this process and to the voters who allowed this to be possible. I can’t wait to welcome you all to our new campus soon!” The Memorial Drive Elementary rebuild is part of the 2017 Bond Program and continues the transformation of district facilities that began with the 2007 Bond Program. Planning is also underway for a new Guthrie Center, expanded Ag Farm facilities and other projects under the CTE-focused 2022 Bond. Learn more about both bond programs at: www.springbranchisd.com