Feel Good Story: The Heart of Decker Prairie | A Community United in Compassion

Feel Good Story: The Heart of Decker Prairie | A Community United in Compassion

At Decker Prairie Elementary, kindness isn’t just a value—it’s a way of life.

When recent legislative changes left some local families facing uncertainty, DPES Counselor Jennifer Brough reached out to see if any needed immediate food assistance. Within hours, the need was clear—several families were struggling. What happened next was a powerful display of compassion and unity that defines the Decker Prairie Elementary community, and many among Tomball ISD.

“We sent a single email to staff and families,” recalled Principal Tammy Sebesta, “and within just one day, we received food, gift cards, and toiletries to support every family in need for the entire month. Their generosity has been truly inspiring.”

That rapid response reflects the heart of the Prairie Pantry, a campus initiative launched by Brough to ensure that no child goes without food or basic essentials.

“I wanted to make sure food and hygiene needs were the last concern on a child’s mind when they arrive at school,” Brough said. “Food insecurity isn’t a biweekly challenge—it’s a daily one.”

Motivated by that belief, Brough applied for and received a $2,500 H-E-B Community Investment Grant to start the Prairie Pantry in 2024. What began as a simple food and hygiene resource has since grown into a cornerstone of care at Decker Prairie. Today, the program also includes The Counselor’s Closet, which provides clothing and shoes for students, and a partnership with a local church that supplies weekend food backpacks—supplemented by Brough on alternating weeks to ensure consistency.

When the initial grant ended, the Decker Prairie community refused to let the program fade. The 4th Grade Student Ambassador Club organized a campus-wide Penny Wars that raised over $600, while the PTO hosted Spirit Nights and coordinated food drives to keep shelves stocked. Local partners, including ICON Martial Arts, have joined the effort, holding their own drives to help replenish supplies.

As needs have grown—more than doubling this school year—the Prairie Pantry has continued to meet families where they are, offering both resources and reassurance. “This week alone, I’ve seen countless moments of joy—smiles, happy tears, and the instant relief of parents knowing food insecurity will no longer be a worry,” Brough shared. “There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing a child’s face light up, knowing they can simply enjoy being a kid.”

Principal Sebesta says the Prairie Pantry has become an anchor of hope on campus. “When Jenn first came forward with the idea and grant application, we couldn’t have imagined how many families it would touch,” she said. “In today’s economic climate, even families who wouldn’t normally need help are finding themselves in difficult situations. Knowing that we can meet both their academic and basic needs means everything.”

That compassion runs deep across the Decker Prairie community. “Our campus is deeply rooted in a strong sense of community,” Sebesta added. “Whenever a need arises, the response is immediate and heartfelt. Our families rise above differences and come together to care for one another—it’s a beautiful reflection of who we are.”

For Brough, the vision for the Prairie Pantry continues to grow. She hopes to expand offerings to include culturally diverse food and household items that reflect the campus’s unique community. “Above all,” she said, “my goal is for the Prairie Pantry to remain a consistent, reliable source of support for our students and families for years to come.”

At Decker Prairie Elementary, this kind of unity and care is more than a campus effort—it’s a reflection of what Tomball ISD stands for: one community that believes in the power of supporting kids and families, together.

Because in Tomball ISD, the heart of every school beats for its students—and the community stands proudly behind them.