Spring ISD recently made a heartfelt decision to rename its Family and Community Engagement Center in honor of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.
The unanimous approval for the renaming was a tribute to Congresswoman Lee’s legacy and commitment to education and community development within Texas’ 18th Congressional District, which she represented for 29 years.
After her passing in July due to pancreatic cancer, the renaming stands as a lasting reminder of her efforts and dedication to bettering the lives of students and families in the area.
The Family and Community Engagement Center, situated at 17125 Ella Boulevard, hosts various programs that cater to the needs of Spring ISD students and families. Programs like The VINE Mentoring Program and the Smart Start Early Learning initiative focus on enhancing student success and fostering family engagement.
Board Secretary Kelly P. Hodges expressed, “Her unwavering commitment to our community was evident through her work in securing vital federal resources for our schools, advocating for equitable access to education, and supporting initiatives that uplifted our most vulnerable populations.”
She wasn’t political in that sense. She genuinely cared.
Justine Durant, Spring ISD Board President
The decision to honor Congresswoman Lee by renaming the Family and Community Engagement Center was met with unanimous support from the Spring ISD Board of Trustees, who shared personal stories illustrating her impact on the school district.
Dr. Deborah Jensen, a board member for 14 years, highlighted Lee’s efforts in celebrating student achievements and ensuring the district had access to necessary resources to support academic and social programs.
Board President Justine Durant praised Lee’s long-standing commitment to Spring ISD, emphasizing her continuous support and advocacy for students’ needs, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Durant recalled a poignant moment during the COVID-19 pandemic where Lee’s dedication shone through as she worked tirelessly to vaccinate children within the district, demonstrating her genuine care and concern for the community.
She remained a familiar face at Spring ISD graduations, ensuring each student felt valued and recognized for their achievements.
Durant concluded, “She wasn’t political in that sense. She genuinely cared. Some people may say she only wanted the spotlight, but that’s not true. Sheila was about taking action and helping her people.”