One Hour Can Change a Life: Why Volunteering or Mentoring in Spring ISD Matters More Than You Think
It only takes a small amount of time to make a big impact—and that’s something the Spring Independent School District knows firsthand.
With more than 34,000 students across 43 campuses, Spring ISD thrives on the support of its volunteers and mentors. Whether you're sharing your time in a classroom or showing up each week for one student who just needs someone to believe in them, every little bit counts.
“Volunteers like you play a vital role in supporting student achievement and enriching the educational experience across our schools,” said Dr. Demetress Price Wright, Spring ISD’s Family Empowerment Coordinator. “Your time, energy, and talents make a real difference, and we deeply appreciate your commitment.”
From lending a hand with school events to mentoring a student through a tough season of life, community members are stepping in—and changing lives.
Becoming a Volunteer in Spring ISD
If you’ve ever thought about giving back to local schools, there’s no better time to start. Spring ISD has streamlined the process to make it easy for anyone with a heart to help.
Volunteers simply fill out an online application through the district’s VIPS portal, which includes a background check. Once approved, volunteers can choose from a variety of opportunities—helping with reading time, school events, administrative tasks, or classroom support.
The district provides clear, common-sense guidelines to help volunteers know what to expect and how to make the most of their time. Things like respecting student privacy, dressing appropriately, and always working in the presence of a staff member ensure a safe and productive experience for everyone involved.
The Vine Mentoring Program: A Lifeline for Students
One of the most impactful ways to get involved is through The Vine Mentoring Program, a Spring ISD initiative that connects students with caring adults who commit to meeting once a week—just 30 to 60 minutes—either in person or virtually.
Mentors in The Vine do more than just talk. They listen. They cheer. They show up. And for many students, that consistency is a game-changer.
“The Vine is the source of life for the branches,” the program’s mission explains. “It provides the water and nutrients by which fruit are produced.”
By creating a space for trust and encouragement, The Vine helps students build leadership and communication skills, explore college and career opportunities, and feel seen and supported. The results? Students in the program have shown:
- A drop in disciplinary referrals
- Higher attendance rates
- Academic improvement
- Greater confidence in planning for the future
To become a mentor, interested adults just need to complete the VIPS application, submit the Vine Program Interest Form, and attend a district training. It’s a small time commitment that delivers a big return—for both the student and the mentor.
It’s Not Just Good for Kids—It’s Good for You, Too
While students benefit from mentorship and volunteer support, research shows that the people giving their time often gain just as much.
According to MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership, young people with mentors are more likely to enroll in college, participate in extracurricular activities, and take on leadership roles. But adults who volunteer also see improvements in their own lives—like lower stress levels, stronger social connections, and a greater sense of purpose.
A national study from AmeriCorps even found that volunteers report higher satisfaction with their work and personal lives, as well as better overall physical health.
In short: helping others helps you, too.
Make a Difference—Starting Now
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to get involved in your community, Spring ISD offers plenty of ways to step in. Whether you volunteer once a month at a school event or mentor a student every week through The Vine, your support matters more than you know.
To get started:
- Volunteer by applying at here
- Interested in mentoring? Email mentoring@springisd.org or contact Dr. Lorena Zertuche at 281-891-6187
- Questions about volunteering? Reach out to Dr. Demetress Price Wright at dwright@springisd.org or 281-891-6699
Sometimes the smallest act of kindness—reading a book, asking how a student’s day is going, showing up for a weekly chat—can grow into something powerful.
In Spring ISD, it’s happening every day. And there’s always room for one more mentor, one more volunteer, one more neighbor who wants to help a student shine.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
