Former LHS Principal Ben Harmon was honored Wednesday, Oct. 5, as the namesake of the new ninth and tenth grade campus during a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony in the cafeteria.
Harmon was also honored for having 38 years of service for LISD and 45 total years dedicated to Texas public education.
“I was very appreciative of everything that has been done,” Harmon said.
Also speaking at the ceremony was school board president Vernell Greg, Superintendent Dr. Stephen Waddell, and Andy Plunkett, former principal of the Killough campus and current principal of Harmon.
“I told the class of 2015, not only do they get this wonderful building for two years, but also the completely finished main campus for two years,” Plunkett said.
Dr. Waddell also had a few words to share about Harmon.
“[Ben Harmon] has a commitment to student success,” Waddell said. “He was a visonary in meeting the needs of students, parents, and staff members alike. He has selflessly given his time and abilities, his integrity and wisdom.”
Harmon was also honored by the unveiling of a special photograph.
“A portrait of him will be displayed in the library as a reminder to all, of who he was and is in LISD,” Waddell said.
Harmon was very enthusiastic about the campus representing him, his years of education, and his family.
He referred to Lewisville and LISD as a “community of friends.”
“I accept the school name when I realize it represents more than my name,” Harmon said.
When Harmon walked into the school for the first time, he said he “realized something was missing.”
“Now I know what was missing – [Mr. Plunkett] and the students,” Harmon said. “You are the lifeblood of this wonderful campus.”
Musical performances by the band and the Main Street Choir were also a part of the ceremony, as well as a duet of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” by Harmon teacher Tenia Green and LHS student Chiah Lian.
Harmon joined school board members, Dr. Waddell, Harmon Student Council members, and cheerleaders to stretch a bright red ribbon across the stage. An over-sized pair of scissors was handed to Harmon, and he slowly cut the ribbon to officially dedicate the new campus.
“It was far beyond what I expected,” Harmon said. “I’ve never seen [a ceremony] any better.”
