Harvard Elementary School marked an important milestone on Sept. 18 when the school celebrated being 123 years old.

Harvard opened its doors for the very first time in the Houston Heights on Sept. 18, 1898. A lot has changed since that historic day, as Harvard has been an International Baccalaureate school since 2012, offers a STEM Magnet program, and has a Gifted and Talented program called the Vanguard Neighborhood Program. In 2008, the school was named a National Blue Ribbon School.

The school has a tradition to celebrate the school’s birthday every 5 years. On Friday, they will celebrate the latest milestone by decorating the front door, but that’s not all Harvard has in mind to celebrate.

“Three students will lead our schoolwide community during morning announcements by singing the Harvard song and showcasing photos of the primary resources from our Harvard archives,” said Principal Laura Alaniz. “Teachers will deliver a mini-Harvard history lesson and pass out birthday bracelets to everyone.”

Harvard has been part of HISD since 1921.