Harris County Department of Education celebrated National Principals Month during October. Our four school leaders are put in the spotlight for their endless commitment to the principalship.

The four principals celebrated include Marion Cooksey, Highpoint School; Donna Trevino-Jones, Academic and Behavior Center East; Antony Moten, Fortis Academy; and Victor Keys, Academic and Behavior School West.  Plaques and accolades were given by HCDE board members and administrators.

“Principals are near and dear to my heart because being a principal is one of the most challenging jobs in public education,” said Superintendent James Colbert Jr. “The principal is responsible for every person on the campus. Our principals do an exceptional job. Our principals don’t ask questions; they take every student and promote a culture where everyone loves that student. We appreciate everything you do.”

We asked our four principals several questions. Here are a few of our favorite answers:

Marion Cooksey: Tell us something your co-workers don’t know about you?
Next year will be 30 years in education for me.  I did not attend college immediately following graduating from high school. Life took me in a different direction, and it wasn’t until several years later that I attained my bachelor’s in elementary education.  Seven years after that, I earned a master’s in educational administration.  Earning both degrees was a testament that it is never too late to pursue your dreams.

Victor Keys: What made you want to become a principal?
I wanted to implement programs to help my students be more successful. For example, a day care at my last school. At ABS West, we have a vocational program, web-based curriculum, golf and chess programs. We have positive relationships with our community partners.

Donna Trevino-Jones: What motivates you each day?
I love helping our students, parents and teachers with whatever they may need. There are times they just need someone to talk to and I am happy to be that set of ears that can listen, reserve judgment and see how I can support them. This has been such a unique opportunity for me, and I do my best to make a difference every day.

Anthony Moten: What made you want to become a principal?
One of my old campus principals told me that I would be a good principal and allowed me to serve as principal for a day. I saw how principals can impact the learning outcomes for every child. I became enamored with the challenges and responsibilities of ensuring that every child received a 21st century education.

Photo: Holding plaques and being celebrated during Principals Month by administration and board members are principals Anthony Moten, Fortis Academy; Donna Trevino-Jones, ABS East; Victor Keys, ABS West; and Marion Cooksey, Highpoint School (not present, but treasured).