Educators strive daily to equip students with the necessary tools to be successful. It’s not always clear if their message is well received until students are tested and must apply their newfound understanding. This week, Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) teachers witnessed the fruits of their labor as 12-year-old Nicholas Harris received county recognition for his efforts as a top student.  

Harris described himself as a good elementary school student who lost his way when transitioning to junior high school in a nearby district, where he faced challenges with his teachers and peers.  

After an altercation in which he lost control of his emotions, administrators enrolled Harris at Highpoint School. While his parents were concerned about the decision, the campus quickly became his safe haven.  

As one of four Special Schools provided by HCDE, Highpoint School offers low student-to-teacher ratios and gives adjudicated or expelled youth a safe and highly structured learning environment needed to succeed in both academic and social settings. 

Campus leaders use restorative practices, where children learn problem solving and conflict resolution techniques as well as how to live with the consequences of their actions, how to avoid blaming others and how to make restitution for past actions. Harris grasped these concepts quickly and has been working to manage his frustrations positively while maintaining high academic marks.  

“Nicholas was a breath of fresh air,” said Chelsea Bryant, a middle school Edgenuity teacher. “Many students that come to Highpoint grow to be like Nicholas by the time they leave. He came here very mature, and I think that’s just who he is; he just happened to be in an unfortunate situation.”  

The honor roll student is always looking for ways to lend a helping hand on campus, whether assisting teachers in the classroom, standing up for students who are still finding their voice or participating in schoolwide assemblies. Middle school teachers noted Harris’ hard work and dedication to making better choices and elected him as November Student of the Month.  

But the recognition doesn’t stop there.  

Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia invited Harris to his annual Christmas Party, where administrators presented him with the Student Achievement Award, an official proclamation declaring Dec. 5, 2024, as Nicholas Harris Day in honor of his perseverance in and out of the classroom.  

“Nicholas, I want to tell you that I’m so proud and I want you to continue on this path to success,” Garcia said during a video address. “Make sure you stay focused on education and stay committed to seeking out positive role models that will help you move forward. Because Nicholas, you have promise and you will continue achieving that promise. I’m sure of it.”  

Harris smiled as he described feeling like he was a star on television.  

“I’m a big basketball fan, and I felt like I was the number one pick in the first-round draft,” he said. “I feel like I finally made my parents proud of me, and it made me feel good, too, because I earned something good instead of just getting in trouble.”  

Garcia honors students annually, but specifically requested a student from Highpoint this year. Since the campus is in his precinct, Garcia has been following the progress of campus programs and their impact on adjudicated youth. He recently contacted Principal Courtney Waters in search of a student who has overcome challenges and is better because of them. She immediately thought of Harris.  

“This award and county recognition reaffirms that we are doing right by our students,” Principal Waters said. “Our kids come to us for various reasons and often feel defeated or lack hope, but we try to show them why they should continue striving for more. It’s awesome that the Commissioner and other county leaders are getting an opportunity to see the good we are doing here and know that we are intentional about the investments we make in the lives of our students.” 

Principal Waters, Highpoint staff and Harris’ parents were beaming with pride as the 7th grader detailed his advice for students in front of a crowd of more than 100 community partners, businessmen and influential leaders. 

“Be yourself. Don’t make the same mistake as me by trying to become something you’re not,” Harris said with conviction. “Stay true to who you are, stay in school, and focus on your grades.” 

Added Bryant: “He’s not my biological kid, but I feel like he’s like my kid because we just connected from day one. I’m like a proud mom, and honestly, I would not be surprised if one day I looked up and saw he was on the ballot to be president. He’s that smart.”  

While the presidency is not currently in his sights, Harris plans to attend Universal Technical Institute to fulfill his dream of becoming a mechanic, a passion inspired by his father and grandfather.  

“Nicholas is a remarkable young man who demonstrates the Highpoint mantra of ‘Your past does not define your future. You hold the key to your success,’” Waters smiled. “We are grateful to be a part of his journey and know that this is only the beginning of his achievements.”