Parents, students tell Spring ISD board the swim program is 'left without a team' after coach removal and pool outage

Parents and student athletes urged Spring ISD trustees on March 10 to prioritize repairs to Spring High School’s pool and restore stable leadership for the swim program.

"We don't have a pool. We don't have a coach. Each and every one of you needs to do better," Michelle Rodriguez told the board during public participation, saying the team has not practiced in almost two months and that promises of prompt repairs have not been fulfilled.

Student speakers echoed the urgency. Monica Rodriguez, a varsity swimmer, said the pool’s heater, pump and chemical regulator failed after regionals and that a lack of consistent maintenance has made the facility unusable. "At this point, it feels like the issue is being overlooked rather than treated with the importance it deserves," she said. Senior Emiliano Arellano described swimming as a pathway to college—saying his scholarship covers more than 80% of tuition—and asked trustees to ensure future students have similar opportunities.

Other parents said removal of coach Michael Hernandez disrupted the program and left families paying for outside lessons. "There is no coach, no pool, no practices," Joseline Rodriguez said. Irvia Flores reinforced a request for both repairs and stronger district support for the swim program.

Board members thanked those who spoke and did not take immediate action on repairs during the meeting. Administration did not announce a repair timeline in the public record; parents requested clearer communication and faster prioritization.

What to watch: Parents said they expect a district response with a repair timeline and a plan for coaching stability. Trustees and staff indicated they would follow up in future board updates.