Every great school has a great principal. Harris County of Department of Education has four great principals. HCDE celebrates each of them during National Principals Month in October.

Principals were specifically honored at the Oct. 17 board of trustees meeting.

For Anthony Moten, Fortis Academy principal, the wonderful thing about being able to work with kids is the opportunity to make a difference daily.

“I’m honored to be a part of Fortis Academy and what we are building here,” Moten said.

Highpoint School East Principal Marion Keith Cooksey realized he wanted to make a greater impact to students when he started his teaching career.

“As a child, I needed some assistance, so I can identify not with all the problems students have but I know that a problem is a problem no matter how small or large it is and we’re able to assist them,” Cooksey said.

Victor Keys, Academic and Behavior School West principal, started as a teacher and wanted the opportunity to impact a lot more students.

“Working for Harris County at ABS West, it has given me the opportunity to put my total vision for what I wanted for students in place,” Keys said.

Academic and Behavior School East Principal Keith Oliphant says he has always been a warrior for kids.

“Being a coach, you’re working with kids to benefit them, but being a principal is a great responsibility because you’re working with all of the components of educating the kids,” Oliphant said.

The four principals have a combined 111 years of experience in education.

HCDE Board of Trustees President Louis D. Evans III has been in education for 40 years and complimented them for their professionalism and sincerity.

“You guys speak for kids who can’t speak for themselves,” Evans said. You take care of people who can’t take care of themselves. At the end of the day, you care about our kids.”