In 2005, the Notre Dame Club of Houston embarked on a most significant and historical partnership with the Spring Branch Independent School District and Northbrook Middle School to mentor middle school students. After the initial year, the scope of the program was expanded to include Northbrook High School, and initially involved those students who graduated from the middle school program at Northbrook MS.

Northbrook MS is a state-of-the-art facility with excellent equipment. However, its student body is 85% economically disadvantaged, and 43% has limited English proficiency. It consists of 97% minorities, of which 90% is Hispanic, and 6% is African American, and 1% Asian and Native American. The school achieved "Recognized" status in 2007. Northbrook is located at 3030 Rosefield, near the intersection of Gessner and Kempwood. Access to the school from the Sam Houston Toll Road is very convenient.

Academic performance of students is crucial to Houston, to Texas, and to the United States. Our students must be motivated and educated to qualify for the quality jobs of tomorrow.  Many of the kids are not receiving the type of inspiration and encouragement they need to be successful academically because of poverty, parents who do not have or do not value a formal education, lack of knowledge of the academic systems in this country, limited family English language capability, or cultural or peer pressure not to begin or complete high school. It is clear that the schools need the active support of the community to win this battle, especially from educated citizens who feel responsibility to help produce change.

This is such a serious situation that the Club has committed to a major effort to make a difference.

Mentoring in the Spring Branch Independent School district is in its seventh year and has produced remarkable tangible results in higher grades, higher student aspirations, less discipline problems, and improved campus atmosphere. There are approximately 550 mentors, provided by faith-based organizations, alumni clubs, and corporations. But still, more mentors are needed, due to the popularity of the program and the demand from students.

By volunteering to meet with a 6th, 7th or 8th grade student, your mentee, once a week for 35-45 minutes at the school, you can make a HUGE impact. Also, this program is consistent with the University's goal to reach out and be of service in our community, increase minority enrollment at ND, and attract the best students. The Assistant Director of Admissions in charge of minority recruiting on campus is aware of our program and has given active support.

On faith, we committed to bring a team of great mentors to Northbrook MS in September of 2005, and we kicked-off with twenty-five mentors.  We are committed, because it is consistent with our Christian values and the mission of Notre Dame, and we have a great group of talented alums, families, and friends to take up the challenge. In 2007 we made a quantum leap forward through adding partners to out team:  St John Vianney, St. Jerome, and St. Catherine of Siena parishes.

The Golden Dome Mentors were awarded the Red Apple Award in May 2007 as the outstanding volunteer organization in SBISD by the Spring Branch Education Association. In 2008, the Texas Association of Partners in Education awarded the group its Crystal Award for being the top Texas community partner in a medium-size school district.  In 2008, club mentor coordinator Wyn Norris was an honoree of the Mayor's Volunteer Houston awards.

Please read the information below in the FAQ and contact Wyn Norris (281-493-0873, This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ) to join or to get further information.