More than 100 students at Highpoint East participated in the school’s annual Teen Summit on Apr. 27, 2018. The summit focused on providing future opportunities for students, and included presentations from local universities, vocational organizations and businesses. Students also heard an inspiring message from retired NFL player Cory Redding.

As he pointed out in his message, Redding was once in the same situation as many students at Highpoint East. He is now retired from a successful athletic career, owns multiple businesses and is active in his community and in charitable activities through The Cory Redding Foundation. He encouraged the teens to make decisions every day that will put them on the path to success.

“We all get two precious gifts every day – time and opportunity,” said Redding. “I encourage you to resist quick gratification. So many things right now are instant, but life doesn’t work that way.”

Students also received valuable information from representatives with Sam Houston State University, Work Force Solutions, the Navy and Army National Guard. Juniors and seniors were guided through the process of applying for scholarships and financial aid.

New this year, local businesses and entrepreneurs provided hands-on activities for students and insight into starting their own businesses. During their session with Ouindetta Thomas of Chef Win, the teens learned to decorate cupcakes with icing and fondant. Students also learned about the music and film industries from Lonnie Mitchell with Track World Productions, a local recording studio, and Courtney Glaude with Green Eyed Theater.

HCDE’s Highpoint East School offers adjudicated youth in grades 6-12 a safe and highly-structured learning environment. Highpoint East has a low student-to-teacher ratio and gives students the skills needed to succeed in both academic and social settings. For more information, visit www.hcde-texas.org/who-we-are/divisions-and-leadership/schools/highpoint-school.