Even though classrooms across Spring ISD are quiet for the summer, Monday, July 14 marked the exciting kickoff of three days filled with learning and collaboration. The energy was high at Dekaney High School as hundreds of leaders from across the district came together for the 2025 Summer Leadership Institute.

First launched in 2021, the Summer Leadership Institute has become an annual tradition and a dedicated time for administrators across the district to pause and reflect on the past year while setting priorities for the one ahead.

The event opened on a lively note, as line dancing music filled the air and set the tone for the days ahead. “Boots on the Ground” got the crowd moving and smiling, bringing a sense of unity and celebration as leaders kicked off the new planning season.

“The SLI is a significant event that sets the tone for the year by bringing all of our leaders together with a shared purpose,” said Spring ISD Interim Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar. “Our leaders play a vital role in the success of our district, and this event provides a valuable opportunity for them to grow professionally, enhance their leadership skills, deepen their knowledge, and build connections — all to help ensure a strong, successful launch to the upcoming school year.”

This year’s institute also marked a renewed focus on the district’s mission—to provide a high-quality education in a safe, student-centered environment—and the importance of building strong campus cultures rooted in accountability, trust, and collaboration.

“We have over 5,000 employees, and it’s so important to build a foundation of respect and belief in one another,” Cuellar added. “Events like this help establish a positive, thriving culture, and it will help make accountability something that’s woven into the fabric of everything we do.”

Cuellar was joined by Dr. Monique Lewis, Spring ISD Executive Director of Professional Learning, who helped frame the event around the power of professional growth and leadership development.

“This event truly builds momentum for the new year,” said Lewis. “It is critically important that we provide our leaders with opportunities to grow and develop. This institute makes me excited and hopeful for what’s ahead.”

Leaders participated in a variety of targeted breakout sessions designed to strengthen instructional leadership, support new teachers, and enhance student outcomes. Sessions included Managing Middle and High School CTE Programs, Blended Learning Strategies for Today’s Classrooms, and Supporting Novice Teachers for Long-Term Success along with many more. Each of the sessions are designed to meet the evolving needs of campuses across the district.

“We want our leadership teams to come into the new year refreshed and engaged,” said Lewis. “We’re going through a time of transition, and there are a lot of changes happening across the district. That’s why it’s important we stay focused on our shared vision—on building culture and accountability as we move into this new chapter.”

On the first day, attendees also heard from students themselves. A panel of young scholars including McKinley Clark from Springwoods Village Middle School, Abigail John, who is heading to Roberson Middle School this fall, and recent Westfield High School graduate Kameron Lewis shared their personal reflections and answered a few questions. Their voices offered meaningful insights to help shape leader perspectives.

Though the sessions varied, the message remained consistent: Spring ISD is committed to equipping its leaders with the knowledge, tools, and community they need to create transformational learning environments.

Special thanks to the Spring ISD Professional Learning Department and to every presenter, volunteer, and sponsor who helped make the 2025 Summer Leadership Institute a meaningful success.