Houston Area Alliance of Black School Educators president-elect Dr. Dawn Randle, left, and president Dr. Christopher Pichon, right, pose with Houston ISD Superintendent Dr. Terry Grier after he was awarded the President's Award from the HAABSE at the Westin Galleria, March 1, 2013. Grier was honored for his efforts in passing the 2012 Bond to improve high schools and other facilities across the district.
The Houston Area Alliance of Black School Educators has awarded HISD Superintendent Terry Grier its highest honor. Dr. Grier recently received the Presidential Award at the organization’s 26th Annual Outstanding Teacher Awards and Recognition ceremony at the Westin Galleria Hotel.
HAABSE President-elect and Red Elementary school Principal Dr. Dawn Randle said Dr. Grier was selected for the honor because of his outstanding leadership working to bring the 2012 construction bond program to fruition. That sentiment was echoed by HAABSE President Dr. Chris Pichon. “Dr. Grier has a vision for Houston,” Pichon said. “Because of the bond, new high schools for traditionally African-American communities will now be built or renovated.”
HAABSE advisory board member Darryl King recalled how during a speech at a luncheon last year Dr. Grier challenged the business community to support neighborhood schools. “Dr. Grier’s speech really inspired everyone to do what they could to improve Houston schools,” King said. “After listening to him talk so passionately about the project, I felt compelled to do more for our children.”
While accepting the award Dr. Grier said he was humbled and speechless which he joked doesn’t happen often. He then thanked Team HISD for its efforts informing Houston voters about the bond project. “I couldn’t be more proud of our teachers, board members, staff, and parents for all of their hard work telling the community about the need for this bond, “ Dr. Grier said. “Because of their work thousands of children’s lives will be changed.”
Dr. Grier also recognized the accomplishments of African-American students during the last school year. “I’m proud to say that the African-American graduation rate for HISD improved faster than in any other urban district nationally, and that our drop-rate among African-American students is the lowest its ever been,” he remarked.
During the ceremony, HAABSE also honored nearly 100 hundred area teachers including several from Team HISD. The Houston Area Alliance of Black School Educators’ primary mission is to enhance leadership in providing valuable professional services and strategies to institutions, agencies, and communities engaged in creating an environment in which students, particularly minority students, can achieve academic excellence.