In a moving celebration of service and community spirit, the Spring ISD Family and Community Engagement Department hosted its Annual Volunteer Appreciation Reception on April 17. The event served as a heartfelt tribute to the extraordinary individuals whose dedication, compassion, and unwavering support help shape the lives of students and strengthen campuses across the district.
Held at the Spring ISD Transportation Center, the gathering brought together nearly 200 attendees, including volunteers, district staff, and community leaders, to highlight the invaluable role volunteers play in fostering strong, inclusive, and student-centered learning environments. This heartfelt gathering served as a “thank you” to those who help make the district’s schools stronger, more welcoming, and inclusive to serve every student.
Superintendent Dr. Lupita Hinojosa opened the evening by expressing her profound gratitude for the role volunteers play in student success.
“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our district,” Hinojosa said. “They step in, show up, and make a difference—without expecting anything in return. Tonight, we honor that spirit of generosity.”
One of the most powerful reflections of the night came from Spring ISD Board President and longtime volunteer Justine Durant, who shared her journey from parent involvement to leadership.
“I started as a PTO president at Clark Elementary, and have volunteered in the district for 25 years. Now, I serve on the school board,” said Durant. “I know how our volunteers dedicate their time, advocate for our kids, celebrate our successes, and stand by us through opportunities and challenges. One evening isn’t enough to thank them or show how much we appreciate their commitment to our students.”
That sense of purpose was echoed by Rubicelia Tamayo, a parent volunteer at Beneke Elementary, who spoke from the heart about what motivates her to give back.
“I want my son to see that I care about him and his education,” Tamayo said. “I’ve been a volunteer since my son was in pre-K, about five years now. I encourage other parents to participate and take advantage of this rewarding opportunity to be more involved in their children’s education.”
The evening culminated in a special awards ceremony honoring outstanding volunteers, partners, and schools for their dedication and contributions throughout the year. Categories included Outstanding Volunteers, Business and Community Partners, and Commitment to Community and Parent Engagement, shining a light on those who exemplify the spirit of service.
As the night came to a close, Executive Director of Family and Community Engagement Tranita Carroll delivered a message that perfectly captured the evening’s essence.
“Today, we pause to recognize those who give so much without asking for anything in return,” Carroll said. “Behind every successful school is a team of volunteers who give their time, energy, and love, not for recognition, but for impact. Today, we celebrate the difference they make every single day.”
To learn more about volunteering in Spring ISD or to get involved, please connect with the Family and Community Engagement Department by clicking here.
2024-2025 Volunteer Awards
Outstanding District Volunteer
Debbie Townsend
Mr. Lloyd Sells, Jr.
Outstanding Parent Volunteer ES
Tiffany Benedix – Burchett ES
Outstanding Parent Volunteer MS
Melanie Farmer – Twin Creeks MS
Outstanding Parent Volunteer HS
Emma Valderrama – Westfield HS
Outstanding Parent Organization
Dekaney HS Baseball Booster (Jennifer Hayes)
Outstanding Family and Community Engagement ES
Reynolds ES
Outstanding Family and Community Engagement MS
Twin Creeks MS
Outstanding Family and Community Engagement HS
Spring HS
Outstanding Family Empowerment Liaison ES
Melissa Mitchell – Beneke ES
Outstanding Family Empowerment Liaison MS
Lynsela Bowens – Bammel MS
Outstanding Family Empowerment Liaison HS
Claudia Lara – Momentum HS
Outstanding Business Partner
Bryan Packwood – First Financial Group of America
Outstanding Community Partner
Spring AFT 6626
Outstanding Faith-Based Partner
Pastor Christopher Welch – New Direction Church
Outstanding Mentor
Dr. Akira Hinton