Lake Highlands Elementary School celebrated an important moment in its history last week.

The school on Ferndale Road unveiled its state historical marker, bestowed by the Texas Historical Commission.

The marker came after several years of work and planning by many LHE alums and the Lake Highlands Historical Association.

LHE mom and neighborhood reporter JJ Pair was present for the big event and files this report.


Not every 54 year old gets a big party. But on May 21st, Lake Highlands Elementary was recognized by the great State of Texas for her longevity in the Lake Highlands neighborhood with an official Historical Marker. Party indeed.

The front lawn of the school on Ferndale welcomed several hundred folks, from current Kindergarten-6th grade students and their families to the LHE Pioneers who were the first intrepid students of the five room school in 1955. All were present to witness the unveiling of their own history with a Marker now permanently installed in front of the school.

After much visiting by returning Alum for this auspicious occasion, Principal Kim Sullivan welcomed several esteemed guests to the podium. Speakers included RISD Superintendent Dr. David Simmons, District 10 Councilman Jerry Allen, Deputy Chief of Staff Brian Chase on behalf of Congressman Jeb Hensarling, District Director Sarah Hauser on behalf of State Representative Allen Vaught, RISD Board of Trustees Luke Davis, Robin Moss Norcross and Sue Passmore, whose husband Bill began the LHE legacy.

Considered the “Father of Education” in Lake Highlands, Dr. Passmore passed away several years ago. His children, grandchildren and 92 year old sister were in attendance to celebrate the occasion with Sue Passmore.

With performances by the Lake Highlands Junior High Jazz Band, the Lake Highlands High School Drum Line and the LHE 4th grade choir, the audience was well entertained between speakers sharing heartfelt sentiments.

Councilman Allen remarked on the Jazz Band during his turn on the podium.

"It's appropriate that the LHJH Jazz Band is performing during this honorable State of Texas occasion here at LHE. The LHJH is the ONLY Junior High school Jazz Band in the state and we're so proud that they're a part of our great District. A huge part of what makes our community so special is our overwhelming pride in our schools. This pride gets in the blood of our kids and gives them roots. Whether they return to Lake Highlands or settle with their own family to another area, they will carry with them the spirit of Lake Highlands. Most importantly, they will pass this spirit on to their community and their kids."

Norcross and Sue Passmore reminisced about how the late Dr. Passmore, the very first principal of the brand new five room school in what was then the suburban Richardson District, was also the very first bus driver.

Sue Passmore related a story told to her by a parent of one of the first students.

"When my child came home from his first day of school, I asked him if he'd met the principal. He told he had indeed, and that his principal drove the bus,” she said.

Perhaps one of the most exciting moments of the evening was when Dr. Simmons announced that Lake Highlands Elementary is well on its way to becoming an Exemplary School.

Dr. Passmore would be pleased. And all of the families and friends of LHE are proud to be honored by the State of Texas.