Harris MS "Campus of the Year" Article

NEWS
San Antonio Independent School District
Communications Office
141 Lavaca St. / San Antonio, Texas 78210
PHONE (210)299-5799 / FAX (210) 299-5790

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Contact: Carmen Vázquez-González or René Lynn,
Communications Office
www.saisd.net
Date: April 20, 2006

SAISD's Harris selected national 'Middle School of the Year'

A So-Flo neighborhood campus is being recognized for student efforts to enhance their community’s quality of life.

Harris Middle School is a recipient of the National Youth Crime Watch of America (YCWA) Casey Award presented during the March 20-23 international conference in Ogden, Utah.

The award honors individuals and organizations that provide leadership, resources and exemplary support for youth-led crime prevention efforts and programs.

Harris – the only middle school in the nation selected for this honor – was recognized for its students’ holistic approach to campus and neighborhood improvement ranging from conflict resolution and theft prevention programs to community clean-ups and promoting awareness of the dangers of smoking.

“These efforts have resulted in Harris being one of the safest, friendliest and most positive school environments in the nation. Academics amidst a healthy learning environment have clearly become a non-negotiable,” said Principal Moises Ortiz.

Student groups taking key roles in the endeavors include the school’s Peer Assistance Leadership (PAL) group, Peer Mediators and YCWA members.

In a similar honor, Harris also is a San Antonio Bar Foundation’s Peacemaker Award recipient, earned during the 2003-04 school year.