Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Summer Food Program Feeds Kids For Free

With summer right around the corner, it’s time to think about keeping children healthy while school is out. Spring Branch I.S.D. provides free meals to children during the summer. There are no income requirements or registration. Any child under age 18 may come to eat. For more information, contact Michelle Dickson at 713-251-1150.

Each year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture partners with local organizations like SBISD to provide free meals to children when school is out for the summer. For more information about the national Summer Food Service Program, visit http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/summer.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW SBISD's SUMMER FEEDING SITE LISTING.
Or, click here to search for services in your area (by zip code).

WAIS approved for IB Career-related Certificates

Teachers and staff at Westchester Academy for International Studies had an extra reason this week to welcome the conclusion of another great academic year -- they learned on Wednesday that the district charter secondary school had been approved as an IB Career-related Certificates School. The IBCC program meets the needs of students who wish to engage in career-related learning.

Read more >> (PDF)

Find the Zone - Join us for Our High Tea Series 6/17

You are invited to join Patti Pace, SBISD’s Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, in a conversation with Dr. Pearson in the third event of our High Tea Series.

Dr. Pearson, an expert on early literacy, is the former dean of the Graduate School of Education at the University of California, Berkeley and a faculty member in the programs in Language and Literacy and Human Development. His research focuses on reading instruction and assessment.

He is the recipient of many awards, including the 1989 Oscar Causey Award (NRC) for contributions to reading research, the 1990 William S. Gray Citation of Merit (IRA) for contributions to reading research and practice, the 2005 Albert J. Harris Award (IRA) for the year's best reading disability publication, and the 2003Alan Purves Award (NCTE) for a publication impacting practice.

In 2006 the University of Minnesota honored him with the Alumni Outstanding Achievement Award, and in 2010 AERA presented him Distinguished Contributions to Research in Education Award. In 2012, the Literacy Research Association established the P. David Pearson Scholarly Influence Award to be given annually to honor research that exerts a long-term influence on literacy practices and/or policies.

Event Details:

Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Spring Branch Middle School Auditorium
  • Elementary Session: 8:00-11:00 am
  • Secondary Session: 12:00-3:00 pm
Hot Tea and cookies will be served....Please RSVP to Debbie Vesling at deborah.vesling@springbranchisd.com

Spring Branch ISD Literacy….Find the Zone!!!

AYAM's Summer Program Starts June 17


Tall Tales & Art

Join AYAM's summer program

of stories, art lessons, & creativity

 For kids 4-11

along with their parent or caretaker

June 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 & 26th

10:00 am - noon

$2 per child per day, or

$10 for a summer membership

allows you to attend  

all the workshops

Free with SBISD free lunch voucher

No need to register, just 

Come for one or come for all

 

Forward to your friends so they don't miss out!

Graduation 2014

In the past few days, more than 2,000 graduating seniors have walked across the stage at Don Coleman Coliseum, highlighting with a few steps one of their “life” moments in which years of growth, learning and achievement are capped off by celebration and embracing the future.

For all graduates, their families and the entire Spring Branch ISD community, it has been a Saturday and a Monday evening to remember, one filled with enormous pride and tearful moments of joy!

On Saturday, May 31, and Monday, June 2, an estimated 2,014 seniors attended graduation ceremonies. Four high schools sponsored May 31 graduations, and a separate graduation was held on the evening of June 2 for Westchester Academy graduates and their families.

In all, SBISD seniors have been offered more than $20 million in scholarships to pursue technical certification, two-year or four-degree programs at local colleges and universities nationwide.
Graduation ceremonies were streamed live on the district website, and images of the day were posted online and through a variety of social media.

Links of Interest:

Recording of the Live Event Stream - Video:
Photo Galleries:
In special remarks, Superintendent of Schools Duncan F. Klussmann, Ed.D., told graduates to focus on the journey ahead. He urged them to be a part of the district and community goal to double the number of graduates who complete some form of higher education or technical certification. This district goal is known as T-2-4.

“The success of our school district is not in how well you do while you are with us, but how well you do when you leave us,” he stated. SBISD’s commitment extends past Graduation Day.

Dr. Klussmann told graduates that they will receive a letter from the school district soon asking them to remain in touch, but also providing all graduates with a phone directory for key staff from the district and their high schools to help them directly should issues or questions arise in the weeks or years ahead.

SBISD’s Board of Trustees, leadership, educators and staff are tremendously proud of this year’s many graduates. Congratulations to the Class of 2014!

Kindle Fires for 10 Spring Branch Students

Ten students from Spring Woods and Northbrook high schools were among 30 honored from across the area in May by CITGO Petroleum Corp. and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office as a part of a yearlong “Kindling Young Minds” program.

Receiving new Kindle Fire tablets as a part of the program were two Spring Woods High ninth-graders, Rebekah Lemaire and Lilliana Rodriguez, and three graduating seniors, Lorelei Shannon, Garrett Gardner and Nick Zander. A special ceremony with both CITGO and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office representatives was held May 22 at the high school on Tiger Trail.

Five Northbrook High students received Kindle Fires in a separate May 22 event as part of the same program. They are Ingrid Martinez, senior; Vanessa Ochoa Reyes, junior; Joseph Salinas, sophomore; and Michael Perez and Carlos Ayala, who are both in ninth grade.

The program was launched last fall to boost student attendance and achievement at six Houston-area high schools. Five students from Spring Woods and Northbrook high schools won Kindle Fire tablets last December to recognize first semester achievement and attendance. Improved student attendance is a key program goal.

“We launched the ‘Kindling Young Minds’ program to remind students that each day counts,” Sheriff Adrian Garcia said at Spring Woods High School. “We are excited to revisit the high schools to see how the initiative has improved school attendance in the Houston area. We’re so proud that our partnership with CITGO has helped empower the students in Harris County to do well in school.”
Other Houston high schools taking part in the program are Worthing and Madison high schools in Houston ISD and Hastings and Elsik high schools in Alief ISD.

CITGO is a Houston-based refiner, transporter and marketer of transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals and other industrial products.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office protects and serves the public in one of the nation’s most populous urban counties. Adrian Garcia is the county sheriff.

Parent-Child Book Club

A new book club for third-graders and their parents at Hunters Creek Elementary School this semester sparked excitement as young children and adults shared the joys and insights of reading with each other.

The original idea for the Hunters Creek Elementary Book Club traces back to a district book study that was led by district I-Coach Melissa Ramirez. Attendees included I-Coach Diane Fanning and Hunters Creek Principal Robye Snyder.

In SBISD, I-Coaches help teachers and principals connect traditional curriculum to fresh ideas in instruction, including new technologies and learning opportunities. 

Would both parents and students at Spring Branch ISD campuses be interested in forming a book club as a more social and less traditional way of exploring books and their importance in the lives of children and adults?

In January, Fanning joined Principal Robye Snyder and teacher Omi Ford to start up an after-school book club that met in the library monthly. It started out slowly, beginning by design with a half dozen families, and it then took some months for open conversations and deeper dialogue to develop.
“I have been impressed with the deep level of understanding these children have developed on author’s purpose and theme of the books we have shared,” School Principal Snyder says. “Our first talks were superficial and stilted. In our later times together, our discussions were much like those I’ve had in adult book studies.”

Third-grade mom Stephanie Swartz calls it hands down the best experience of the year. She took part in the book club with her son, David, a third-grader.

“The third-grade book club was a beautiful experience to witness and be a part of. My son was encouraged to voice his insight about literature when all year long he was being taught how to answer STAAR test multiple-choice questions,” she said.

The book club was a good match for her talkative son. “His interest in reading and engaging in deeper discussions about literature skyrocketed directly because of the book club,” she adds. “Our facilitator suggested amazing novels and that set us off on an amazing path!”

Teacher Omi Ford, who is SBISD’s newest Elementary Teacher of the Year, noted that the flow of conversation had a variety of leaders and contributors each month. Interestingly, the book club included a variety of students who had different needs, interests and strengths.

“Each month the leaders and contributors of our discussions have shifted. Parents or children may bring experiences to the text that jumpstart our dialogues and lead us into deep discussion about life issues,” she said.

In April’s meeting, 16 moms, dads and children joined Fanning and others from the campus in a library circle after school. The book under review was the 1960 children’s novel, “Island of the Blue Dolphins,” by Scott O’Dell.

The novel happened to be the first one that I-Coach Fanning, a gifted facilitator, had read as a child. The book tells how a young girl who was stranded for years survived on an island off the California coast. It is based on a historical account from the 19th century involving Native American Juana Maria.

Like many adults who read novels again after several decades, I-Coach Fanning told the book club that her memory had failed her. “I remember this book being difficult and hard to read. I’m amazed what 50 years can do.”

During the next 45 minutes or so, she led students and parents through questions that ran from simple to complex:
  • What would you do to survive on an island by yourself?
  • Did anyone realize where this island was located?
  • What did (the narrator action’s) tell us about her as a person?
  • Was this really an interesting book?  If so, why?
“One of our goals in this was not to think about and talk about books like we do in the classroom. We move from plot and what happened discussion to deep meaning questions: Did you enjoy it? Would you want to read a story like it? Did you ‘buy into’ what the author was telling you?” the I-Coach explains.

The adults waited for children to answer first, then followed up with their views and impressions. Some parents found that the discussions had broader impacts.

“I love how the Book Club has expanded the reading relationship I have with my son,” says Kelly Siblik, who attended with her son, Kyle. “As a mom of four, I love our newfound bond over Book Club books. It has opened a new and different relationship for us. It is time spent reading that we love, cherish and adore.”

The April meeting ended with lively, student discussion of the merits of the next book selection. Students voted on their next read, a book titled “Hatchet.” It was the first time that students picked a new book.

“This group of young people who at the very beginning would not say anything about book selection is now really vocal. I appreciate that!” Fanning told them.

All the book club students have set summer reading goals, one of the topics that dominated the last meeting in May. “We want you to read all summer long so that you can be super smart next year in fourth grade,” the students were told.

Next year, Hunters Creek Elementary may have a  fourth-grade book club, too, if the third-grade group remains interested.

Starting a parent-child book club is a great way to model reading and discussion about books, but some SBISD schools are limited in parent outreach due to two-adult working households, commuting issues and meeting time issues. Bilingual clubs might be a priority on other campuses, Fanning noted.
Woodview Elementary formed a parent-child book club this semester, and some other SBISD elementary schools have expressed interest, too.

Tips to Start Your Own Book Club (PTO Today)
 
Start small. Get three or four interested parents in the same grade from your neighborhood or PTA/PTO.

Ask your child’s teacher or local librarian for a beginning list of appropriate grade-level books. These should be good for discussion and taken from a variety of genres.

Determine a convenient location and time for parents to meet.
Make the club meeting a special time for parent and child. No siblings, please!

Have a volunteer parent or teacher lead the discussion. The discussion leader will provide questions and/or refreshments. Rotate discussion leaders if you wish.

At the end of a meeting, determine which book will be read next and who will be leading the discussion.

Register Today for Community Education

Register online, by mail or in person for Summer Community Education classes. The Summer Session semester begins June 9. Sign up online. It’s fast, easy, and ensures you won’t miss out on any important opportunities. The Community Ed staff is now conducting in person registrations, too.

Link to Community Ed >>

Career & Technology Education Scholarships

Ten seniors enrolled at Spring Branch ISD’s Guthrie Center or taking related courses at their campuses received Career & Technology Education Scholarships earlier this year.

The 2014 Scholarship Luncheon and Award Presentation was held on April 24. Students in the Guthrie Center’s Culinary Department provided and served lunch for students, teachers and family members who attended.

Academy of Finance and Academy of Hospitality & Tourism Scholarships
The $2,000 First Community Credit Union Outstanding Student Award is given to an Academy of Finance student who has made significant contributions to his/her AOF chapter. Consideration is given to leadership, scholarship, attendance, attitude, community service and future business career goals.

Kylie Schaper, Stratford High School, FCCU Outstanding AOF Student
Mary Jackson, Teacher

Awards of $1,000 are provided to Academy of Finance and Academy of Hospitality & Tourism students who have made significant contributions to their chapters. This year, Toby Neugebauer from Quantum Energy will be the keynote speaker at the fall AOF/ACHT induction event.

Kara Hurey, Guthrie Academy of Hospitality and Tourism
Lorraine Hamilton, Teacher

Jerry Cale, Memorial Academy of Finance,
Lori Baker, Teacher

Erayda Infante-Paz, Northbrook Academy of Finance
Connie Day, Teacher

Alexis Frederick, Stratford Academy of Finance
Kristy Schaper, Teacher

Allen Vo, Spring Woods Academy of Finance
Lisa Slattery, Teacher

CTE Partners Scholarships
Business and industry partners provide guidance and expertise to help steer programs. These partners provide funding for scholarships so that students may pursue their education goals after graduation.

Abril Brugo, Stratford High School, Village Family Practice Health Careers
$2,500 scholarship – Sean Plake, Teacher

Jonathan Martinez, Stratford High School and Guthrie Center, BP America – STEM
$1,000 scholarship – Sonia Greiner & Xavier Martinez, Teachers

Saul Lopez, Guthrie Center and Westchester Academy. BP American – Guthrie Center Partnership
$1,000 Scholarship – Sonia Greiner, Teacher

Career & Technical Education (CTE) Scholarship
This $1,000 award recognizes a high school senior who greatly benefited from his or her respective CTE program. Consideration is given to personal dedication, effort, results and accomplishments.

Holland Chaney, Excellence in CTE
Lori Baker, Teacher

Summer Builds Better Readers!

The pilot edition of a summer reading newsletter will be distributed late this week to older elementary students at three Spring Branch ISD campuses. The newsletter will be posted online for all district students and families, too. (Check for it in the Let's Try Reading Blog or in the SBISD Parent Toolkit >>)

The very first newsletter, titled Branching Out, will be given out on the last day of school to about 400 students enrolled at Treasure Forest, Nottingham and Shadow Oaks elementary schools.

During the summer, new editions will be mailed out each week. Families without easy, reliable access to public libraries are being targeted in this pilot program, as well as students in third through fifth grades, or older elementary readers.

An online version of the literacy-focused newsletter will be posted on the Let's Try Reading Blog for all SBISD students and families, too. Additional reading sources and materials will be provided online as well as links to materials from public web sites.

The online blog can be found here: letstryreading.wordpress.com.

There is more! Each edition of the Branching Out newsletter has a supplementary page that is titled Branching Out for Parents, with suggestions for home activities, questions and other ideas to encourage children to read. Parent letters home are in both English and Spanish.

The pilot summer newsletter project is a result of deep discussions and planning by SBISD’s Associate Superintendent for Teaching & Learning Patti Pace and Lead I-Coach for Elementary Language Arts/Social Studies Diane Fanning.

District I-Coaches will write the newsletters, with article submissions sought from middle school students. In SBISD, I-Coaches help classroom teachers develop and coordinate newer, technology-based learning resources with an array of traditional materials, and specific curriculum and content.

The purpose of the newsletter for students and families is both simple and, at the same time, deeply profound. Students who don’t read during the summer months tend to fall behind their grade-level peers who read on a regular, ongoing basis.

“Through the study of reading improvement, we know that there is a significant loss in reading skills for any student who does not read over the summer,” Pace and Fanning state in the initial Branching Out newsletter to parents.

“By the time a kindergarten student gets to middle school, that student may be as much as two years behind because little or no reading was done for three months. It is very difficult to be a successful middle school student if a child is not reading at the appropriate level,” they state. “Therefore, all of our children should continue to read throughout the summer.”

For questions or suggestions about summer newsletters and reading, please contact Diane Fanning at this address: diane.fanning@springbranchisd.com

Sample Tips for Parents from the initial Branching Out newsletter:
  • Encourage your children to read, read, read, read, read. Don’t make it a chore or a punishment. Try to make it part or your daily rituals:
    • Maybe there could be a time when everyone sits down to read – no television or video games.
    • There could be a time when you read to your children; even older children like to be read to.
    • There also could be a time when your child reads to you or to a younger brother or sister.
  • Let your child do most of the choosing of what she reads. It’s best when the reader is interested in what she is reading. Contrary to popular belief, comic books are good alternatives if your child says she doesn’t like to read.
  • Encourage your child to tell you about what she is reading.
  • It is also wonderful to have the kids write and illustrate their own stories or articles, or skits. (I would love to read what they are writing. Feel free to send stories or articles. – Diane Fanning)
If you don’t have a library card from either the Harris County Library System or the Houston Public Library, make sure to visit and sign up for one. You can download audio books that are equally good for your child. You can get more information from your nearest public library.

We look forward to spending the summer reading with you!

Lemonade Day Stand Helps Houston SPCA

A Lemonade Day fund-raising project run by second-graders at Memorial Drive Elementary School led to a donation of more than $1,300 to the Houston SPCA.

On Sunday, May 4, second-graders in teacher Tori Moxley’s class sold lemonade from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. and cleared a profit of $1,340, which was later donated. Moxley’s Memorial Drive Elementary classroom has sponsored a stand for three years in a row now.

Lemonade Day, which began in Houston in 2007, is organized as a free, fun and experiential learning program that teaches young people of all ages how to start, own and operate their own business – a lemonade stand. It’s estimated that more than 50,000 Houston youth now take part in this business experience.

Ms. Moxley’s preparation for Lemonade Day is extensive, a true student, parent and community project. A representative from the LemonadeDay.org visited and reviewed the student’s budget. The second-graders learned about charities, loans, interests, costs and advertising. They voted on giving profits to SPCA, got a local parent loan and paid it back, created a business plan, and advertising for a school publications and neighborhood signs. Parents made 40 neighborhood signs.

After a successful day selling lemonade, students invited a SPCA representative to the school and presented the organization on May 7 with a big check. Here is what the SPCA said about the Memorial Drive student donation:

Happy Mother's Day! Here's a story that would make any mother proud. The Houston SPCA would like to thank Mrs. Moxley’s 2nd grade class at Memorial Drive Elementary! This amazing class chose the Houston SPCA to receive the money they raised through Lemonade Day. Mrs. Moxley helped her students learn all about the financial aspects of fundraising including supply and demand, advertising, taking out ‘loans,’ and making a profit to help her students understand what goes into selling a product. All of their learning paid off in the end – her class was able to raise over $1,300 for our animals! When Michelle Arnold, Youth Programs Manager, received the very large check she was overwhelmed by their generosity. “I was so impressed by how hard these students have worked and how determined they were to give this money to a good cause. It is refreshing to see students who truly care about animals this much!” Thank you again Mrs. Moxley and your amazing second grade class!

Learn how you can donate to the Houston SPCA when you visit us at www.HoustonSPCA.org.
To learn more about Lemonade Day, please visit:
http://houston.lemonadeday.org/

Six Spartans are now Rice University Grads

Six May 2014 graduates at Rice University share a common link – four years ago, they all graduated together from Stratford High School.

Five of the new Rice grads attended Spring Forest Middle School, and one grad attended Memorial Middle and the Awty Interntational schools.

Rice University held its Commencement Ceremony for undergraduates on May 17 in the Academic Quadrangle on the Houston main campus.

The six 2010 Stratford High graduates who completed Rice University degrees include:
(Photograph from left to right)
  • Kelsey Devine – Bachelor of Science, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
  • Raaji Asaithambi – Bachelor of Arts, Mathematical Economical Analysis and Managerial Studies, with Business minor
  • Bahrom Firozgary – Bachelor of Arts, Biochemistry and Cellular Biology
  • Lindsay Daniel – Bachelor of Arts, Economics and Political Science
  • Lily Marrow – Bachelor of Arts, Sports Management, with Business minor
  • Jacinta Leyden – Bachelor of Science, Bioengineering, with Global Health Technologies minor

Project Lead The Way Certified

Spring Branch ISD’s third high school program focusing on engineering, science and technology through project-based learning is now certified through a national nonprofit organization known as Project Lead The Way (PLTW).

The PLTW program at Northbrook High School, now headed into its third year of operation, was certified earlier this spring by the national project group.
The Northbrook High program had 48 students this year. Student enrollment is expected to double over the next year or so, instructors say.

With PLTW certification, Northbrook High joins similar programs at Memorial and Stratford high schools. The nonprofit PLTW organization’s goal is to help more students prepare for the global economy by learning more about science, mathematics, technology and engineering.

Northbrook High instructor John Hansen said that the program’s recent inspection and review went well. He’s been with the program at Northbrook two years. “They were very happy with the dramatic improvements we have made. As a result, we’re fully certified now as a Project Lead The Way School,” he said.

Hansen holds a doctorate in technical and vocational education. He’s helped guide the engineering design and construction program on campus. The Northbrook High program is seeking a business or industry partner in the area, one that will help students make the connection between their learning projects and future careers.

In August, Northbrook High’s program will offer PLTW courses on Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, and Computer Integrated Manufacturing. Students take program classes in a planned, systematic way.

“I want to be a civil engineer,” says Carlos Canales, a Northbrook High sophomore. “I’ve been working in construction, and I do like it. I want to be the one making up the construction plans, the one doing it and not just the worker.”

“We get to build things by hand and test them. It’s fun to make things like the robots that you see here,” says Devaughn Blanco, another PLTW program student. He wants to be an auto mechanic.
To learn more about PTLW, please visit: https://www.pltw.org/

Finance Department receives state and national awards

For the fifth year in a row, the SBISD Finance Department has been awarded the designation Leadership Circle Gold Member by the state Comptroller’s Office for setting the bar for financial transparency and making the district’s financial books open to the public. The district’s Finance Dept. has earned other recognitions, too.

“The Texas Comptroller’s Leadership Circle program recognizes local governments across Texas that are meeting a high level of financial transparency online. By providing citizens with a clear, consistent picture of spending and sharing information in a user-friendly format, you are setting a strong example for other governmental entities to follow,” Comptroller Susan Combs states in a Gold Member Award declaration form awarded to the district on May 14.

During the year ahead, the department’s Leadership Circle Gold Member insignia will be posted prominently on the district’s website, and on the Board of Trustees’ and Finance Dept. web pages.
The Gold designation is one of the higher rankings that a public school district can earn. SBISD earned a score of 17 out of 22 based on the state comptroller’s ratings criteria under the FAST (Financial Allocation Study for Texas) 2013 program.

Also for a fifth year SBISD’s Finance Department has earned the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. This award is presented by the Government Finance Officer’s Association (GFOA). It is given to represent significant achievement and commitment to the highest principles of governmental budgeting. SBISD’s Finance Department earned highest marks, or proficient ratings, based on how well the district’s budget document serves as a policy document, financial plan, policy guide, and communications device.

In separate but related awards, SBISD’s June 30, 2013, comprehensive annual financial report qualified for the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. SBISD received the Texas Association of School Business Officials (TASBO) 2013-2014 Purchasing Award of Merit recognizing excellence in adhering to professional standards in the acquisition of goods and services. SBISD has been a multiyear recipient of these two awards.

SBISD’s Financial Department is led by Associate Superintendent Karen Wilson.

UH Student Teacher of the Year


A long-time school volunteer, Spring Branch/Memorial resident and mom is the 2014 University of Houston College of Education Student Teacher of the Year.

Kari Young, who recently graduated from UH following studies in early childhood through sixth grade, spent her student-teaching year at Westwood Elementary School and Spring Oaks Middle School in Spring Branch ISD.

She has accepted a teaching position at Spring Oaks Middle School for fall 2014.
“We are very proud of Kari. She has displayed true leadership and outstanding educator qualities during her time as a student teacher,” said Amber Thompson, director of the UH college’s student teaching program.

“Our teacher education program is an award-winning, Tier One teacher preparation program. Kari is most deserving of this recognition and we know that she will touch the lives of many children during her education career,” she also said.

The Student Teacher of the Year award is given to an outstanding student-teaching candidate who excels in teaching skill, knowledge and talent. Selections are made by college faculty and supervisory staff.

Kari Young was chosen from a group of more than 200 student-teaching candidates, all of whom submitted a sample lesson plan for consideration.

Kari’s lesson was titled “Gravity in Space” and was delivered to a sixth-grade science class under the supervision of her cooperating classroom teacher.

“I push my students to achieve, and I support them with encouragement and genuine belief that they can do anything with hard work and persistence,” she said.

Kai has been volunteering in schools for more than 15 years in the U.S. and Malaysia. She is a mother, and has traveled overseas for the last five years. She’s an active member of the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), and she has attended many conferences, including recent meetings of the Conference for the Advancement of Science Teaching (CAST).

The University of Houston is a Carnegie-designated Tier One public research university recognized by The Princeton Review as one of the nation's best colleges for undergraduate education.

UH serves the globally competitive Houston and Gulf Coast Region by providing world-class faculty, experiential learning and strategic industry partnerships. Located in the nation's fourth-largest city, UH serves more than 39,500 students in the most ethnically and culturally diverse region in the country.

The UH Office of University Communication compiled this report.

Scout’s Honor


A Cedar Brook Elementary School second-grader who saw a struggling child in a swimming pool’s deep end, and then jumped in to save a life was awarded one of Boy Scouting’s highest honors on Monday, June 2, in a campus ceremony.

Sherwood Elementary Assistant Principal Merrie Thomas, who is active in local Scouting, presented the National Honor Award to Isaac Warshaw during a 3 p.m. ceremony held in the gym at Cedar Brook Elementary, 2121 Ojeman.

Isaac is a member of the Sam Houston Council, Pack No. 186. About 50 people, including members of Isaac’s Cub Scout pack and adults with the Sam Houston Council, attended the after school event. His mother is a kindergarten teacher at Cedar Brook Elementary.

The National Honor Award, also known as the Boy Scouts Meritorious Award, is one of the highest and rarest awards issued in Scouting. Since Boy Scouts began, the honor has been awarded less than 2,500 times nationally.

Wolf Scout Isaac, according to the award nomination, quickly jumped into a deep swimming pool owned by a friend of the family when he observed a 3-year-old who had jumped off a diving board struggling to keep his head above water.

Isaac pulled the drowning child onto his back, and then held onto the child as he swam to the side of the pool. The child struggled with Isaac, which is typical of drowning victims. Aided by the child’s father, Isaac helped revive the 3-year-old who had swallowed a lot of pool water.

When asked about the risk he took by jumping in, Isaac reportedly said, “I didn’t even think about that. I made my choice to save [the boy].”

At Cedar Brook Elementary on Monday, Isaac described everything with one word. “Happy!”
“I want to be a lifeguard when I grow up. I want to save people,” he added. Isaac is a member of his neighborhood swim team, and he has taken swim lessons since the age of 3. From Scout training, Isaac learned how to identify if a swimmer is in real trouble in the water.

“This act of courage, heroism and skill demonstrates how Scout Isaac Warshaw used situational awareness and swimming taught by Scouting and his coaches,” his nomination states.

“Thank God and the Boy Scouts for planting the seeds in our son to help someone in a difficult situation,” Issac’s mother, Esmeralda Warshaw, told nominators. Her words for the other Scouts were simple and direct.

“When you see someone in trouble, you help them. I feel so proud of Isaac. He did this without thinking, and everything came out well,” she added.

The Kids’ Reading Rooms

Two apartments in Spring Branch are now supporting young readers because one district educator has made a dream about children’s reading rooms come true.

A Rummel Creek Elementary staff member and her husband have collected gently used and donated children’s books, shelving and storage units, and cozy furniture for special reading rooms inside two Spring Branch apartment complexes.

The efforts of Interdisciplinary Coach, or iCoach, Trish Schappell and her husband, Vincent Schappell, to put more books in children’s hands, improve reading, and gain area volunteers to help staff the two apartment centers paid off recently. A web-based funder, the Pollination Project, became an online Johnny Appleseed to the cause.

A $1,000 grant from the Pollination Project, a Dallas-based nonprofit organization that plans to give away $1,000 a day in seed money to anchor grassroots initiatives like the Schappells, was recently announced.
In her role as a district iCoach, Trish helps provide staff development for teachers and staff, writes SBISD math curriculum, works with testing students, models the lessons for others, and supports students and teachers with instruction.
The project grant is helping the Schappells create a nonprofit organization, which they hope will help the fledgling organization gain more donors and support.
The Schappells founded Tthe Kids’ Reading Room children’s literacy areas in two apartments. The Castlewood Apartments are located at 7100 Westview Drive, and the Gentry House Apartments are at 9001 Kempwood Drive.
“Our purpose is to promote literacy and to instill the love of reading in children in their own apartment environment,” Trish says. “The rooms are meant to be places where kids can be safe, be surrounded by colorful books, have book discussions, and build their leadership skills. Kids come and read books, or are read to during story time.”

Children can earn weekly prizes, too, by logging in the amount of time they read daily.
The grant worthy effort has not been easy, but Spring Branch ISD has helped by providing background checks on volunteers at no cost. School library books that have been discarded have also been donated.

A Boy Scout, Josh Castro-Donathan of Northbrook High, who is working on an Eagle Scout award, has canvassed neighborhoods for more book donations, and his family has collected 17 bookshelves for the two current The Kids’ Reading Rooms.

Trish worked with Executive Service Corps of Houston (ESCH) to gain nonprofit status, but it will take about a year to earn official status from the IRS. They face a healthy, but uphill struggle to put more children’s books in student homes.

“We have no funds,” Trish confides. “If I buy something, I purchase it myself. My husband and I continuously work to collect donations of books, shelving, couches and other decorative items. Friends, teachers, family and neighbors have donated items. It’s an ongoing thing, and my car and garage are always filled with new and exciting things for the rooms.”

More volunteers are needed. Training is provided. “I’m always looking for new volunteers, especially for the summer. I work in the rooms many times, but with work and meetings, we’d like to get more volunteers,” Trish says.

All the volunteering and work have an upside. “I am on Cloud Nine! Making an impact and difference in the lives of these kiddos means everything to me. I can’t stop working to create more Kids’ Reading Rooms,” she says.

“I know there will be more! The sky is the limit!” Trish proclaims of the growing need for reading centers in apartments.

The Pollination Project was founded by Dallas entrepreneur Ariel Nessel, who set a goal of awarding a $1,000 grant daily for 365 days in 2013. He wanted to award grants directly to people who were doing good instead of donating to big, or more traditional types of charities, according to news reports.

For more details about The Kids’ Reading Rooms, call Trish Schappell at 281-235-9620, or contact her through the following email addresses:

patricia.schappell@springbranchisd.com
thekidsreadingroom@gmail.com.

Learn more about this effort on Facebook:
www.facebook.com/thekidsreadingroom

Spring Woods High grad earns Gates prize

A leader in the Spring Woods High Class of 2014 who believes deeply in the power of education to change the entire planet for the better will enter George Washington University (GWU) this fall as a Gates Millennium Scholar.

The Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) Program award will likely change Maria Palomares Carranco’s life. Like a great gift, the scholarship comes wrapped with possibilities that include good-through-graduation, full financial support, and even an option for ongoing funding on certain master’s level degree programs and pathways.

Maria was strolling with a high school friend through the history-rich Georgetown neighborhood in Washington, D.C., during an April visit to GWU – her top college choice – when her mom texted.
She had a letter from the Gates Millennium Scholars program! What did it say?

Moments earlier, Maria was thinking that GWU wasn’t for her – too expensive. “I was in shock,” she says recalling her reaction to the award. “I said to myself, ‘I will go to my dream school!’ It really all came together in a moment, and it was awesome,” she remembers.

She plans to double major at GWU in history and international relations. A teacher who aired a video documenting the plight of children in South Sudan really helped the scholarship winner focus on her future path.

“I decided in my junior year that I want to fight for education internationally,” she says. “I want to make it a reality to work in education internationally, even if that’s just teaching. We need teachers more than we need people who write or talk about education and education topics.”

As a Gates Scholar, Maria can focus on earning university degrees for a long time.

This scholarship includes renewable awards for all undergraduates, and the GMS Program supports graduate school funding in areas where Hispanic-Americans and other student groups are under-represented, such as the sciences and medicine.

Funded in 1999 through an initial $1 billion grant by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the scholarships have been awarded to more than 16,000 students. Maria was one of about 1,000 students who received the scholarship this spring.

After attending Ser Ninos Academy, a dual language school in Houston, Maria, who is an only child, moved with her mother to Spring Branch ISD. She joined Edgewood Elementary as a third-grade student, and graduated from the school.

Later, she attended and graduated from Cornerstone Academy, and then settled in for four years at Spring Woods High School.

At Spring Woods, she chose all Advanced Placement (AP) classes for her senior year – English literature, economics, government, statistics and biology. She took all AP classes from her sophomore to senior year, in fact.

“I’m not the smartest kid, but I am the person who wants to do something harder. I’m sure that other people would say I’m an over-achiever,” she says.

She was inducted into National Honor Society her junior year. In addition to her studies, Maria was part of the award-winning speech and debate program at Spring Woods High for three years, and she was chosen two times as a Texas Forensic Association qualifier.

On Student Council, she served as secretary, and she also served on the high school’s T-2-4 Committee. She volunteered throughout summers as a Vacation Bible School volunteer at Houston’s Second Baptist Church.

“Education has been a great thing for me, a great way to learn about culture, and a great way to learn how to do things a better way,” Maria says. “Education can help all of us learn how to fix the world, and make it better for future generations.”

Maria credits mom, Luz Rydzy, her teachers at Edgewood Elementary School and two Spring Woods High teachers in particular – AP History teacher Lora Clay and Student Council advisor Kaleb Underwood – as key adults on her path to George Washington University and future success.
SBISD salutes Maria Palomares Carranco on her Gates Scholarship.

Board Officers elected during May 20 Special Meeting

Three Trustees were elected unanimously as new Board officers in Spring Branch ISD for the year ahead during a Special Meeting on May 20 of the Board of Trustees.

Elected unanimously as the new Board President was Trustee Chris Vierra, Position 4. Trustee Wayne Schaper, Sr., Position 1, will serve as the Board Vice President, and Katherine Dawson, Position 3, was elected the Board of Trustees Secretary. All new officers were elected in unanimous votes.

In separate action during the Special Meeting, Trustees Wayne Schaper, Sr. and Chris Gonzalez were both sworn in and took the official oaths of office for their new, three-year Board terms for Positions 1 and 2, respectively.

Neither SBISD Trustee was opposed for re-election earlier this year.

Trustee Pam Goodson, first elected in 2010, served as the Board President for the past two years. She was praised publicly by SBISD Superintendent Duncan F. Klussmann, Ed.D., for her leadership during a transition period where several new Trustees joined the Board.

“Pam has been a strong leader since she became a Board Member. You’ve made our roles as staff members so very easy because of your leadership,” Superintendent Klussmann said. He welcomed new Trustee officers into their new leadership roles, too.

As a remembrance for time in office, outgoing Trustee President Goodson received a gift plaque mounted with a gavel like the one she used as Board President.

The seven members of the SBISD Board of Trustees are elected at-large to serve overlapping, three-year terms. All district Trustees serve without pay.

Spring Branch Education Foundation Announces Spring Grants

At its May 29 Board meeting, Spring Branch Education Foundation (SBEF) directors approved $62,000 in grants that will fund diverse education-enhancing projects throughout Spring Branch Independent School District.
           
The grants are designated for district-wide projects and SBISD campuses. Twice each year, the Foundation calls for grant applications, up to $5,000 each, from any of its 47 school campuses or district departments. Volunteers, as well as faculty members, are encouraged to apply.
           
“Generous community members support the Foundation’s fundraisers and make donations to support these grants,” said Donnie Roseman, a member of the SBEF Board of Directors and chair of the Program and Assessment Committee. “The committee is always impressed with the creativity of the requests. All applications are carefully evaluated for the long-term affect they will have for students.”

Grants that will benefit students on a district-wide basis include:
  • Altharetta Yeargin Art Museum – The grant will help fund Road Shows that take the museum to first-grade classrooms and Study Trips for second graders who travel to the museum. Both programs are closely coordinated with grade-level curriculum.
  • Houston Prep Summer Camp – Up to 80 high-performing students from four SBISD schools will be provided transportation to The University of Houston Downtown Houston Prep Program where they will learn about science, technology, engineering and math. This first-time exposure to a college campus can be life-changing.
  • J. Landon Short Mini-Grants for Educators – Ten grants, up to $500 each, will be awarded to SBISD educators who wish to go beyond standard curricula activities and materials to enrich the learning environment. This program fosters new best practices for teaching and learning.
  • Literacy Leadership – Materials will be purchased for SBISD staff in leadership positions to facilitate discussion about the challenges of encouraging students to become lifelong readers, writers, thinkers and learners.
  • SpringBoard Mentor Program – More than 500 mentors spend an hour each week with students on 30 SBISD campuses. This relationship helps students build self-confidence, develop communication and interpersonal skills, discover their passions and find meaningful connections between school and the future.

Grants for individual campuses include:
  • Cedar Brook Elementary School – Each 3rd grade classroom will receive four Kindle Fires loaded with books to encourage independent reading.
  • Edgewood Elementary School – Learning Together® provides proven cross-age tutoring for 2nd and 3rd graders who are struggling with math and reading. They will be tutored by 5th graders, emerging leaders, who will benefit from additional instructional time.
  • Hollibrook Elementary School – Xylophones will be added to the school’s music program as a way for students to learn about other cultures and historical periods, as well as sharpen motor skills.
  • Meadow Wood Elementary School – This sensory-based motor lab will help medically fragile and life skills students build competency through action-based learning.
  • Memorial Middle School – Broadcast journalism is in the near future for 8th graders. With new camera and computers, students will write, film and edit news clips, while learning the various roles of a broadcast team.
  • Spring Forest Middle School – All 8th graders will be required to use graphing calculators for the 2015 STAAR test. Using new calculators on a daily basis will increase students’ comfort and familiarity.
  • Terrace Elementary School – Terrace Leaders of Tomorrow, 16 recruited students, will be mentored twice a week after school in a variety of team-building, critical thinking and problem-solving activities.
  • Wilchester Elementary School – A garden educator will help students, teachers and PTA volunteers with hands-on learning opportunities provided by vegetable and pollinator gardens.

“We encourage PTAs, principals, and teachers to apply for these grants,” said Cece Thompson, SBEF executive director. “We will call for fall 2014 grant applications in September, and the recipients will be announced in December.”

Additional grants were awarded as the result of a successful Running for the Arts event on May 3. SBISD’s Fine Arts department received $40,700 for ArtsPartner field trips to the city’s premier performing and visual arts venues. The district’s Health Fitness department received $14,200, and the Altharetta Yeargin Art Museum received $4,445.

Community members who wish to support a specific program at a designated campus can make a tax-deductible donation to the Foundation and earmark it for it for that school. Call 713-251-2381 or visit sbef@springbranchisd.com for more information.

About Spring Branch Education Foundation

Founded in 1993, the mission of SBEF is to enhance the quality of education for every student in SBISD. The Foundation provides donors with a vehicle for making tax-deductible gifts to the district. The Foundation has raised almost $8 million and received the Houston Business Promise Award from the Greater Houston Partnership.

Employee Campaign Scholarships – A New Record!

Forty-three graduating seniors who are the sons and daughters of Spring Branch ISD employees received scholarships this year through the Employee Campaign Scholarship program, which is supported by donations from district employees.

Individual student scholarships of $1,000 were awarded May 16 during the Spring Branch Education Foundation (SBEF) 2014 Bright Stars of SBISD, Celebrating Academic Excellence awards program and dinner. The annual celebration highlights students and teachers across SBISD. It was held at the Westin Houston, Memorial City Hotel.

When employees were asked in August 2013 to contribute to SBEF’s Employee Campaign scholarship fund, they eagerly responded. Throughout the school year, SBISD staff members contribute to the SBEF Employee Campaign, funding scholarships for SBISD graduates who are children of district employees.

 “The response was so great that we awarded a $1,000 scholarship to every applicant – a record 43 graduates. We are thrilled!” said Cece Thompson, SBEF executive director.

2014 Employee Campaign Student Scholarships   

Oksana Aviles, Westchester Academy – Oksana plans to attend the Universidad Vasco de Quiroga in Michoacan, Mexico, where she hopes to study medicine. She was a member of the Spanish Honor Society, Student Council and the Interact Club. Her mom, Maria Orozco, is employed at Westwood Elementary.

Clementine Berrenger, Stratford High – At Stratford High, Clementine was involved in Marching Band where she was named to All-Region Band and was a state-level ensemble qualifier. She was a counselor and leader in training at Camp Flaming Arrow. She will attend the University of Houston and study mathematics. Her mom, Carla Berranger, works at Cornerstone Academy.

Louis Birdsong, Stratford High – Louis ends his years at Stratford High with a record of accomplishment that includes Varsity Football, Student Council, Young Life, Stratford Playhouse and the Boy Scouts, where he earned Eagle Scout honors. He volunteers in Memorial Drive United Methodist Church work camps. He will attend Texas A&M University in College Station where he plans to study landscape architecture. His mom, Judy Birdsong, works at Pine Shadows Elementary.

William Collier, Stratford HighWill’s goal is to attend the University of Texas at Austin to study business.  At Stratford he was a member of football team and the Ultimate Frisbee Club.  He received the distinction of serving as a member of the teen judging panel for the Rice University Business Plan Competition in 2013.  He has volunteered extensively with work camps and outreach programs through Memorial Drive United Methodist Church.  His mom, Joanne Collier, is a teacher at the Wildcat Way School for Early Learning.

Jonathan Colon, Stratford High – In high school, Jonathan was involved in Business Professionals of America, where he earned medals in Human Resource Management and was a state qualifier. A strong leader in the classroom, instructor Mary Jackson says that he “leads by example.” He will attend Houston Community College, where he plans to study business. His mom, Julia Colon, works at Woodview Elementary School. 

Samuel Cordova, Stratford High – Samuel ends his high school years as captain of the Varsity Swim Team, and member of the Stratford Leadership Council and Spanish Club. He will attend Trinity University in San Antonio, where he will study engineering and business. His mom, Julia Cordova, teaches at Cornerstone Academy.

Kelly Cuevas, Stratford High – Kelly plans to attend the University of Texas at San Antonio and study studio art. A four-year letterman and senior captain in Soccer, the senior was a member of Stratford Leadership Council and Spanish Club. Kelly’s mom, Mary Cuevas, is employed at Northbrook High School.

McGregor Dalton, Stratford High – McGregor is an Honor Thespian and active member of Stratford Playhouse and a member of Collegium, the varsity choir, as well as Vocal Chords, an a cappella group. He won a Tommy Tune award for Best Ensemble, and he was nominated for Best Supporting Actor. McGregor was a member of Young Life, National Honor Society, and he was a Memorial Drive United Methodist youth work camp volunteer. He’ll attend Montclair State University in Montclair, N.J., and major in musical theater. His mom, Katherine Dalton, works at Valley Oaks Elementary.

Fiona Fahey, Stratford High – Captain of the Varsity Cross Country team, Fiona was also a member of Varsity Track, Junior Varsity Lacrosse, Symphony Orchestra and Junior Girls. She plans to attend Texas Tech University in Lubbock and study medicine. Her father, Michael Fahey, works at Stratford High School.

Alexis Frederick, Stratford High – Alexis will attend the University of Texas in Austin, where she plans to study business and finance. She is a member of many groups and associations: National Honor Society, Spartanaire Dance Team, Academy of Finance, Student Council, Business Professionals of America, and Lacrosse. A National Merit Commended Scholar, she volunteers with Ronald McDonald House and the City-Wide Club. Her mom, Cynthia Frederick, is employed at Nottingham Elementary.

Arielle Garcia, Spring Woods High – At Spring Woods High, Arielle was a member of the Yearbook staff and National Honor Society. She has volunteered at Pine Shadows Elementary and with NewSpring Art Studio. She will attend Houston Community College and study fine arts. Her goal is to be an art teacher. Her mom, Irene Garcia, works at Pine Shadows Elementary.

Christoper Heiser, Spring Woods High – As an athlete, Christopher was active in Football and Track & Field, where he reached regionals in shot put and discus, and stands as a three-time AAU Nationals qualifier in Track & Field. A cheerleader and a theater member, he plans to study mechanical engineering and technology. His father, John Heiser, works at Spring Woods High.

Hector Hernandez, Spring Woods HighHector plans to study petroleum engineering at the University of Oklahoma. He was a three-year letterman on the Varsity Baseball team,  and was selected to All-District 1st team. Hector volunteers as an assistant coach with the West Houston Girls Softball Association and volunteered during ACE program summer school enrichment. He was a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, Student Council and Senior Men. His mom, Marcela Hernandez, is employed at Spring Shadows Elementary.

Jacqueline John, Stratford High – At Stratford High, Jacqueline was active in Marching and Concert Bands, Honors Band and Orchestra. She was co-editor of the Yearbook, National Honor Society and Link Crew, and volunteered at Houston Public Library and Nottingham Elementary. She has been accepted into the Honors College at Texas A& M University in College Station and pursue an industrial engineering degree with a minor in Music. Her mom, Kandi Bartling, works at Cornerstone Academy.

Adam Kassir, Westchester Academy – Adam will attend Rice University, where he will study Biological Sciences with a focus on premed. A National Merit Commended Scholar, National Hispanic Scholar and valedictorian, Adam was president of the National Science Honor Society and a member of the Spanish Honor Society, Model United Nations and Westchester League of Champions. His mom, Patricia Kassir, is employed at The Bendwood School.  

William Klussmann, Stratford High – A staff photographer with Stratford’s newspaper, Will earned the Bravo Award. He plans to attend Oklahoma University and study history, combined with advanced studies in photography. His interests include the Peace Corps. His father, Duncan Klussmann, is SBISD Superintendent of Schools.

Austin Lee, Spring Woods High – Austin Lee will attend Texas A&M University in College Station and study geo-sciences. He was a member of Varsity Tennis team, Chess Club and Senior Men. He earned 24 college-hour credits through the dual-credit Early College Program. A Black Belt in martial arts, he is also a performing member of the Phan Academy of Martial Arts. His mom, Kathy Lee, works at Westwood Elementary.

Rachel Loving, Westchester Academy – A member of Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, Rachel served as group historian. She was member of the following: National Junior Honor Society, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, and Model United Nations. She was assistant group leader with her church’s Vacation Bible School. She plans to study engineering at the University of Texas at Austin or at Texas A&M University in College Station. Her father, Travis Loving, works at Westchester Academy.

Christian McLane, Memorial High – Christian’s interests have included the Memorial Mustang Outreach Bunch (MMOB), Symphonic and Jazz bands, Orchestra, and Swim, Water Polo and Track teams. He was the Marching Band drum captain, and earned an Eagle Scout award. He will attend Texas A&M University at College Station, where he plans to study aerospace engineering. His mom, Mary Ellen Ledgard, is employed at Memorial High.

Jonathan Martinez, Stratford High – Jonathan will study architecture at the University of Texas at Austin. He was a competitor in the Michael G. Meyers Design Competition and the Harvard Debate Invitational. An Academy of Science and Engineering member, Jonathan served as co-president of the Junior Engineering Technology Society. He was a member of the National Honor and National Technical Honor societies, and he served as president of the Symphonic Orchestra at Stratford High. He has volunteered at the Children’s Museum District and Houston Food Bank. He has tutored violin students at Spring Woods Middle School and mentored a Memorial Middle School student. Jonathan is a two-time recipient of the Character Without Question award. His mother, Carolina Martinez, works at Pine Shadows Elementary.

Amy Mata, Stratford High – Amy will study French and Italian languages at the University of Houston. A member of the Film and Photography Club, United International Cultures Club and Model United Nations, Amy was president of the Spanish and Project Nice clubs, and head sound engineer for Stratford Playhouse productions. She volunteers at Houston CAPS and at other city events. Her mom, Rosalva Huerta, works at Academy of Choice.

Charles Matthew, Spring Woods High – Charles Matthew plans to study engineering or business at the University of Houston. As a three-year letterman on Swim Team, he was a regional medalist and a three-time regional qualifier. He earned 24 college-hour credits through the dual-credit Early College Program. Charles now works at Kroger. His mom, Diana Shannon, works on the Westchester Academy in SBISD’s Performing Arts Dept.

Daniel McGuire, Stratford High – A Stratford Playhouse performer who also played Football and managed Girls Varsity Basketball, Daniel was a Link Crew member who also volunteered for Vacation Bible School at First United Methodist and Sharpstown Baptist churches. He was a Habitat for Humanity volunteer builder. Daniel will attend Houston Baptist University and study history and aviation. His mom, Amy McGuire, works at Valley Oaks Elementary.

Alexandria Miller, Westchester AcademyAlexandria’s accomplishments include playing Cinderella and leading the WAIS Thespian Society as president. She served on the Executive Board for National Spanish Honor Society and was a member of Interact, Advanced Choir and National Honor Society. Alexandria served as a Fish Camp coordinator, and she volunteers in Vacation Bible School, at the Houston Zoo and at Camp Discovery Summer School. She plans to attend Texas A&M University in College Station where she will major in theater arts with a minor in Spanish. Her mom, Barbie Miller, is employed at Edgewood Elementary.      

Niall Miner, Westchester Academy – Niall will attend the Colorado School of Mines, where he will study mechanical engineering. Secretary and treasurer for the National Honor Society and vice president of the Math Honor Society, Niall also served as the treasurer of the Science National Honor Society. His mom, Caroline Miner, works at Cedar Brook Elementary.

Kaung Myat, Northbrook High – After earning his degree in mechanical engineering at Texas A&M in Kingsville, Kaung plans to serve in the military. He was named the Most Outstanding Student in Digital Art and Animation. He was also named Volunteer of the Year and Most Outstanding Volunteer with the Buddhist Association. Involved in Football and Track, he had perfect attendance for his last three years. His parent, Dawlele Myint, works at Northbrook High.

Brandon Montano, Westchester Academy – Brandon will soon attend Sam Houston State University in Huntsville. His dream is to be a professional actor. He was a member of Student Council, Drama Club, Interact, Spanish Honor Society and Thespian Society where he took part in several theater productions. His mom, Susan Aronstein, is retired.

Ernesto Najero, Spring Woods High – Ernesto plans to study computer programming at the University of Houston. A Varsity Tennis member and tuba player in the Marching Band, he is a youth leader at Young Nak Presbyterian Church, where he serves on the praise and worship team. He has also completed missions in Houston and Austin. His mom, Maria Najera, is employed at Pine Shadows Elementary.

Lorenzo Pacheco, Memorial High – At Memorial High, Lorenzo has been a member of Orchestra, National Honor Society, Anime Club and Academic Challenge. He has perfect attendance during high school. He plans to attend Truman State University in Kirksville, Mo., and study biology and chemistry. His mom, Lisa Tames, works at Memorial High.

Jenny Payton, Stratford High – Jenny Payton will attend Baylor University in Waco, where she will study biology and premed. A Varsity Debate member and team historian, she was a member of the National Forensics League’s (NFL) Outstanding Distinction Team and an alternate for national tournament. A Bronze Award Girl Scout, she was a Vacation Bible School leader at two churches, and an after school program volunteer. Her mom, Jodi Howard, is employed at Nottingham Elementary.

Jacob Pennington, Stratford High – A member of the student newspaper, French Club and Theater Crew, Jacob earned the Bravo Award in English. He’s involved in Memorial Drive United Methodist Church’s Youth Group, and he has attended many summer work camps. Jacob, who aims to be a psychiatrist, will attend Lone Star Community College this fall. His mom, Pamela Pennington, works at Bunker Hill Elementary.

Sergio Razo, Spring Woods High – Sergio will study sports management or electrical engineering at Texas A&M University in College Station. Captain of the Junior Varsity Soccer team, he earned the high school’s Scholar Athlete Award. Sergio took part in the Early College dual credit program at Houston Community College (HCC) Spring Branch, earning college credits. His father, Raul Razo, works in the SBISD Maintenance Dept.

Riley Reese, Memorial High – A member of the National Honor Society, Varsity Soccer team, Mustang Mentors, and Latin and Endurance clubs, Riley was also named an Academic All-District student. She earned Gold and Silver Awards in Girl Scouts. At Texas A&M University in College Station, Riley plans to study veterinarian medicine. Her mom, Rhonda Reese, is employed at Memorial High.

Christian Rice, Spring Woods High – Christian Rice will attend Yale University this fall and study political science and global studies. A president and vice president of Speech and Debate Team, the 2014 class valedictorian served as a Junior Achievement officer. Christian won Superior, Excellent and Outstanding ratings in Orchestra. He took part in the district’s T-2-4 Greater Houston Partnership Workforce Development Committee. His mom, Armandina Rice, works at Westwood Elementary.

Domenique Rieder-Gasca, Memorial High – Domenique’s accomplishments included participation in the following groups: Memorial Mustang Outreach Bunch, Health Occupations Students of America, Memorial Markettes Dance Team, the National Honor and National Science honor societies, Club FACE, and the St. Cecilia Life Teen program. She volunteered at Vacation Bible School and also at Spring Shadows Elementary. Her mom, Elizabeth Gasca, works at Spring Shadows Elementary. She will attend Baylor University in Waco, and is interested in a career in speech pathology.

Ashley Rodriguez, Westchester Academy – A member of Student Council, Interact Club, Spanish Honor Society and the Art Honor Society, Ashley has worked at Michelangelo’s Italian Restaurant and at Idea Lab Kids for summer camps and birthday parties. She will attend the University of Houston-Downtown and study health and nutrition. Her goal is a registered nursing degree. Her mom, Diana Rodriguez, works at Westchester Academy.

Kylie Schaper, Stratford High – Kylie will attend Texas A&M University at College Station and study community health. Her memberships include: Student Council for four years; Cheerleading; Business Professionals of America; Link Crew; Academy of Finance; and National Charity League. She was president of Tri-Theta Girls Group, and a Character Without Question student finalist. Kylie took part in work camps with Memorial Drive United Methodist Church’s youth group. She is the daughter of Kristy and Wayne Schaper, Jr., who are both employed in SBISD.

Maria Serrano, Stratford High – Maria’s membership activities have included Memorial Mustang Outreach Bunch, National Honor Society, Sophomore and Junior Girls, Spartanaire Drill Team, Stratford Oaks and Stratford Buddies. She was vice president of social events with Tri-Theta Girls Group. She will attend the University of Texas at Austin and study public relations. Her mom, Mary Serrano-Martinez, works at Spring Woods Middle.

Leslie Solis, Northbrook High – Leslie Solis will attend Texas State University and major in English. A member of the Volleyball Team, she was a member of Student Council, Spring Branch Humanitarian Society and National Honor Society. She was a Character Without Question Award winner this year. She volunteers at the Loaves and Fishes soup kitchen, and is training to be a counselor at Camp Victory. Her mom, Sandra Solis, works at Edgewood Elementary.

Kristine Tarawe, Memorial High – Kristine has earned Bronze, Silver and Gold awards through Girl Scouts. She was a YMCA junior counselor, and she entered several pieces of art in the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. She will study media arts and animation at the Art Institute of Houston. Her mom, Jennifer Gilpin, is employed at Memorial High.

Shawn Taylor, Stratford High – A Volleyball Captain, she was also named First Team, All District. In addition to Basketball, she is a member of Link Crew, Stratford Oaks, Tri Theta, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Stratford Leadership Council. Shawn was named All District Academic Team, and has coached a girls team with Memorial Drive United Methodist Church. Shawn will attend Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, La., and study mass communications.  

Andrew Whitten, Spring Woods High – Andrew Whitten will attend Texas Lutheran University in Seguin to study occupational therapy. He was one of the captains of the Baseball Team and has received an academic scholarship from Texas Lutheran to play baseball there. He has been a member of Tallowood Baptist, Senior Men, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and was involved earlier in Varsity Mixed Chorale and Student Council. Andrew works at D-Bat Baseball Academy. He recently was named to 1st Team All District 2014 Baseball for 22-4A.  He is the only varsity baseball player from SBISD to be named to the Houston Area Baseball Coaches Association All star 4A team for 2014. His mom, Cyndi Whitten, works in SBISD’s Accountability & Research Department in Program Evaluation and Research. 


Ashley Wood, Stratford High – Ashley will attend Texas A&M University to study business. Her interests and associations have included Lacrosse, Academy of Finance, National Honor Society, Business Professionals of America and Best Buddies. She was secretary of the Tri-Theta Girls Spirit Group, and volunteered in the Super Place Camp for kids with special needs and Vacation Bible School. Her mom, Kim Wood, works at Memorial Middle School.