Spring ISD Opens 2025–2026 School Year with Strong Start and Focus on Culture
The school year began in the quiet glow of Tuesday morning as Spring ISD buses pulled away from the Transportation Center, their first runs marking the official start of the 2025–2026 academic year. Drivers checked routes one last time, greeted one another, and then rolled into neighborhoods to pick up the first students of the day.
Interim Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar was there to thank transportation staff before heading out to visit campuses. Over the course of the day, he stopped at schools across the district, meeting with students, staff, and families.
“The first day of school is always something special. But today, as I walked our campuses, what stood out wasn’t just the excitement, it was the culture,” Cuellar said. “This year, we’re committed to creating learning environments where every student feels safe, challenged, and supported. Because when we get the culture right, everything else falls into place.”
(Source: Spring ISD)At Westfield High School, students streamed through the doors into a building known for its barbering program, AP courses, and athletic achievements. Over at Thompson Elementary School, a steady car rider line brought families to one of the district’s four STEM-focused campuses, where students start each day with hands-on learning opportunities.
“Our shirts say ‘Full STEM Ahead,’” said Thompson principal Vernecca Day. “What that means is today is the first day of our success. So how you start the day for the first day of school is how you end the day. I have an affirmation that I do with children: we say, ‘I am smart, I am kind, and I can do anything.’”
At Spring Leadership Academy, Principal Henry Suckie greeted students at the door, shaking hands and exchanging encouraging words. The campus emphasizes leadership development to help middle school students grow as confident, globally minded learners.
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“First impressions are lasting impressions,” Suckie said. “This year we are standing on business. Our teachers are out here shaking hands and greeting the students because we want to do everything intentionally—we care about every single person that walks through our doors.”
Later in the morning, Cuellar visited Wells Middle School, recognized for award-winning fine arts, math, and writing programs, and Bailey Middle School, the district’s middle school fine arts hub. The morning concluded at Lewis Elementary, where PK3 students were settling into routines in classrooms filled with books, blocks, and art supplies. Cuellar joined first- and third-graders for lunch, sharing conversations over cafeteria trays.
“From our youngest learners to our seniors, the excitement, the energy, and the smiles were unmatched,” Cuellar said. “It’s the most extraordinary first day I’ve experienced in my career, and it speaks volumes about the heart and commitment of our staff.”
(Source: Spring ISD)With students and staff now fully back in session, Spring ISD begins the year focused on culture, collaboration, and ensuring every learner has the support needed to succeed.
Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for continued Spring ISD coverage and updates throughout the school year.
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.