Goose Creek CISD News
Highlands Elementary Earns National and State Student Leadership Honors
05/28/2026
Story by: Nancy Bonds, GCCISD Director of Communications

Highlands Elementary School is soaring to new heights after earning multiple prestigious recognitions for student leadership and service during the 2025-2026 school year.

 

Student council students stand on stage stairs wearing student council shirts

Highlands Elementary Hawk Council student members.

 

Highlands Elementary was officially named a 2026 American Student Council Association (ASCA) Student Council School of Excellence, a national honor recognizing schools whose student councils demonstrate exemplary leadership, service, student voice, and community impact.

 

The ASCA review committee specifically highlighted the inspiring projects and thoughtful reflections submitted by Highlands Elementary’s Hawk Council throughout the year.

 

In addition to the campus recognition, Highlands Elementary Hawk Council sponsors Kaley Mitchell and Renee' Stripling were named 2026 ASCA Exemplary Advisors for their outstanding dedication, leadership, and commitment to developing student leaders on campus.

 

Adding to the celebration, Highlands Elementary also received the 2026 Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) Student Leadership Award. This statewide recognition honors campuses across Texas that demonstrate exceptional student leadership and create a positive impact within their school communities.

 

The Hawk Council has played an active role in supporting campus initiatives, promoting school spirit, serving the community, and creating opportunities for student voice and involvement throughout the school year.

 

Highlands Elementary continues to embody the values of leadership, service, and excellence, helping Hawks “Soar Above the Rest.”