Students and staff at each campus create gift baskets for campus leaders in thanks

When HISD principals walked into their monthly meeting at the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center on Dec. 3, they discovered a wonderland of gift baskets, glittering bows, and even original works of art.

The colorful and festive treats were assembled on the sly by students and staff members from each school as a gesture of thanks for all their campus leaders do, and the prevailing reaction among the principals was speechlessness.

“I’m overwhelmed,” said Travis Elementary School Principal Tom Day, whose students presented him with a beautiful hand-painted canvas of their own creation. “It’s an unbelievable gesture.”

“I am so amazed,” added Windsor Village Elementary School Principal Stephanie Davis, who received a custom-made cotton throw woven in the design of a photo of her with her students. “It’s overwhelming.”

Chief School Support Officer Shonda Huery, who coordinated the surprise, said she hoped that she had achieved the “wow factor” she was seeking.

“We wanted to take this time to let you know how much we appreciate you,” said Huery. “These were created by your students, who understand how hard you work and how much they depend on you.”

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