stats: 18, Senior at Edgewood Academy
notable: Optimist Club Essay Winner, National Spanish Honor Society Member, Scholar’s Bowl Team Member
quotable: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” – John C. Maxwell
his story: Harris is a member of several clubs and organizations at Edgewood Academy, including the Math Team, Scholar’s Bowl, Beta Club, and Spanish Club. He is a 12U Travel Baseball Coach and serves as the manager for Edgewood’s football team. One thing is clear: Being nice matters to Harris. He was voted “Most Kind” at Edgewood and helps to organize a canned food drive for a local food bank each year. When asked to share something most people don’t know about him, Harris revealed, “I’ve had glasses since I was three, and had to wear a patch over one eye until the age of five to strengthen the other eye.”
what’s next: “After high school, I plan to attend the University of Alabama. I will major in athletic training. After the completion of my degree, I plan to further my education by pursuing medical school or physical therapy school.” When asked what sparked his interest in athletic training, Harris answered, “I help my school’s current athletic trainer with certain tasks, and it makes me want to help people in a way. I also like watching sports, so helping with injuries during sports would be an awesome job to have.”
PG (parental guidance) rating: “My family is always there for me, no matter what is going on in my life. I can talk to them about everything.” He adds, “My dad inspires me daily. He reminds me to do my best in everything I do. He is a true leader, and he makes me strive to be like him.”
parents’ perspective: “We admire Harris’ determination. He has always set his mind on a goal and strived to achieve it,” explains Melissa.
parent-to-parent: Mark and Melissa advise other parents to “be honest, be fair, and encourage your child in everything they do.” They add, “As parents, we hold our boys accountable for their responsibilities and actions. We remind them daily how proud we are of them. We encourage them to do their best, from the small things to the not so small things.”
