HOUSTON – Feb. 12, 2018 – A new Spring ISD program – the Family Leadership Institute – is designed to help parents influence their children’s success. But it was the parents’ success that was celebrated Feb. 3 during the institute’s inaugural graduation ceremony at Carl Wunsche Sr. High School.
Eighteen parents who had successfully completed the program’s 10 learning modules met in front of family, friends, district administrators and staff to celebrate and accept their diplomas.
“We know that success starts with the home, and you are the first teachers of your children,” said Marie Mendoza, multilingual programs director. “We need to walk hand-in-hand with you, because you are the leaders of your family, and now you are the first leaders in our district as parents through this program. We are very proud of you.”
The Family Leadership Institute, facilitated by the Spring ISD Multilingual Department, offers a multifaceted educational curriculum focused on providing families with the knowledge, tools and inspiration to help their children succeed in school and in life. The graduates attended classes where they completed a series of 10 learning modules, which provided them the skills, abilities, and attitudes necessary to enhance their effectiveness as role models for their children.
The graduation ceremony, which displayed a commitment to empowering others to actively engage in their children’s academic journey, served as a way to honor the parents who completed the program and recognize their commitment to helping their children succeed by becoming actively engaged in their education.
Mendoza welcomed the graduates along with family members and distinguished guests during the ceremony,and introduced Socorro Martinez, a graduate of the institute who spoke about her experience.
“My children are my support and my inspiration. The Family Leadership Institute program helped me realize how much I can do to support my children with school and their education” said Martinez.
After receiving their diplomas and graduation pins, the graduates recited the institute oath, which states:
Life affords no greater responsibility, no greater privilege than raising the next generation. In a sense it is the reason why society exists. You reap what you invest in children.
To receive your biggest return, your greatest contribution to the lives of children is not the material things you give them throughout their lives; rather it is the commitment to protect, sacrifice, teach and be the unconditional love present in their lives.
For more information about the Family Leadership Institute and future classes, contact Marie Mendoza, director of multilingual programs, at 281-891-6315 or mmendo1@springisd.org.