SBISD recognized among only 108 districts nation-wide demonstrating continued gains in both reading and math

HOUSTON, TX, May 13, 2026 – The Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD) has been recognized as a “District on the Rise” and spotlighted in the Education Scorecard, released today by Harvard University, as one of only 108 school districts out of more than 14,300 nationwide, and the only district in Texas, to demonstrate continued academic growth in both reading and math at a more accelerated rate than their peers.

Since taking the helm as Superintendent of Schools in 2019, Dr. Jennifer Blaine has focused the district on the fewest high priorities that are foundational to student success. These include reading, math, and student supports at all grades beginning with pre-kindergarten, with the added priority of Career and Technical Education at the secondary level. This intense focus has yielded continued student growth and achievement, as noted in the Education Scorecard.

“Our students’ success is a direct reflection of the relentless commitment and expertise of our teachers, principals, support staff, and school leaders across Spring Branch ISD,” said Jennifer Blaine, Superintendent of Schools.

“This recognition affirms what we already know — when talented educators work together with purpose, high expectations, and unwavering belief in children, extraordinary things are possible. We are deeply grateful to every staff member, student, and family who has contributed to this work.”

The Education Scorecard SBISD Case Study points to the district’s strategic focus on data-driven instruction, research-based best practices, early literacy and numeracy, and strong instructional leadership as key contributors to student success.

The report also highlights the district’s T-2-4 vision, which ensures every student graduates prepared to earn a technical certificate, complete military training, or attain a two- or four-year college degree.

Dr. Blaine notes, “Our T-2-4 vision is more than a graduation goal; it is a promise that every student who walks through our doors will be academically prepared for the complexities of a technical certificate, military service, or a two-year or four-year degree. By defining clear literacy and numeracy milestones, we ensure that rigor is embedded in the student experience from the very beginning.”“Our academic progress is the result of intentional systems and exceptional people working together on behalf of students every single day,” said Annie Wolfe, SBISD Associate Superintendent for Academics.

“Our teams have remained laser-focused on using data thoughtfully, implementing research-based instructional practices, and ensuring every student receives the support they need to thrive,” Dr. Wolfe also stated.

The case study also highlights the district’s Reading Buddies program, which partners nearly 200 trained community volunteers with second-grade students for one-on-one literacy tutoring, giving them the early encouragement to become strong readers at a pivotal grade.

Serving more than 31,600 students in Houston, SBISD continues to focus on preparing all learners for success through rigorous academics, strong student supports, and a culture of continuous improvement.

Last year, SBISD was spotlighted in what was then called the Education Recovery Scorecard, as one of only 100 districts out of 11,000 to exceed pre-pandemic levels of achievement.

“To be recognized two years in a row is a huge honor, and we are so very proud,” affirmed Dr. Blaine.

Dr. Blaine further stated, “Our district prides itself on our Core Value of Collective Greatness, affirming that we, as a community, leverage our individual strengths to reach challenging goals. This recognition by the Education Scorecard confirms that our entire SBISD Family lives our values every day, every minute, every way for Every Child.”