Houston Academy, founded in 1970, is committed to academic excellence and cherished traditions, offering students an education that extends beyond the classroom. We focus on developing strong character, leadership skills, and a sense of community, preparing graduates to succeed and make meaningful contributions to the world.
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At Houston Academy, we provide a personalized, college-preparatory education that empowers students to achieve their highest potential. With a focus on excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts, along with a strong sense of community and tradition, HA prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The HA Difference is seen in our dedicated faculty, engaged students, and the lasting connections that make our school truly unique.
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At Houston Academy, our mission is to develop the whole child, and we are proud to be one of the state’s leading independent schools. Serving students from PK3 through 12th grade, our college preparatory curriculum is enriched by strong core values, the arts, athletics, and time-honored traditions. The close connections among our teachers, students, parents, and alumni create a family-like community where every student can thrive.
Houston Academy students think critically, communicate effectively, and collaborate to solve problems as they strive to achieve their goals and redefine success on their terms. They maintain a balance between high achievement and personal well-being, fostering growth in all areas of life. Within a supportive and dynamic learning environment, students actively engage in the educational process and reflect thoughtfully on their experiences.
At Houston Academy, we value the visual, performing, and musical arts as essential components of a well-rounded academic experience. Committed to nurturing the whole student, we offer opportunities for creative exploration beginning with early instruction in music, art, and performance, continuing through advanced courses and full-scale productions in Middle and Upper School.
Houston Academy encourages all students to participate in athletics, offering exceptional programs that promote sportsmanship, determination, and teamwork. With 40 teams across 15 sports for students in Grades 7–12, and additional opportunities for younger athletes, we create an inclusive and supportive environment where students can excel. We are committed to fostering a culture of integrity and respect both on and off the field.
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Houston Academy offers a vibrant student life where students of all ages are encouraged to engage and thrive. With numerous opportunities for involvement in athletics, clubs, and social activities, our school fosters a supportive environment that nurtures personal growth, teamwork, and leadership. Our rich traditions create a sense of belonging, ensuring that every student can succeed both in and out of the classroom.
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HA Raider Ambassadors
Houston Academy’s Raider Ambassadors are a distinguished team of student leaders who proudly serve as the face of our school. Representing HA with professionalism and enthusiasm, these students act as liaisons between the school and prospective families, alumni, business partners, and the greater community.
Raider Ambassadors play a vital role in admissions events, college outreach, and campus-wide initiatives, helping to foster connections and showcase the values and excellence of Houston Academy. They participate in special events in an official capacity, assisting with admissions efforts, welcoming guests, and promoting a positive image of HA throughout Dothan and beyond.
For more information about Houston Academy or the Raider Ambassadors program, please contact Nicole Lisenby, Director of Admissions, at lisenbyn@houstonacademy.com.
My name is Bennett Amason, and I am a Junior at Houston Academy. I have attended Houston academy since 7th grade, and my sister Anna Blake became a Raider in 7th grade as well. Transferring from public school to Houston Academy seemed like a hard change at the time, but it was so amazing, especially since I had friends to share that experience. Houston Academy has been a great school for me, providing me with the ability to be challenged intellectually as well as be involved in such a welcoming community. I play on the varsity soccer team and I am a cheerleader. I am involved in the National Honor Society, The Harbor Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the National Peanut Festival Junior Fairboard, and a Raider Ambassador. Outside of school I attend the youth at First Baptist Church. I also volunteer in the summer at Camp Victory located in Samson, Alabama. There, I work to help the camp function as well as help mentor young girls in their walk with Christ. Houston Academy has helped me learn to balance all my activities with academics so that I am prepared for the real world. I am so happy to be a part of the Raider community to help serve and welcome new members to the Houston Academy family.
My name is Carmine Biasella, and I am a Freshman at Houston Academy. I have attended HA since 7th grade after moving from California, and before that Illinois. I’ve loved the quality of education here, and my teachers have been some of the best teachers I have ever had. I play soccer and run cross-country. I am also the Director of Marketing for the Robotics team, a National Junior Honor Society Executive, and part of the Love In Action service club. HA has given me a home, and I’m honored to be able to represent HA as an Ambassador.
My name is Kenza Bilbeisi and I am a Senior at Houston Academy. I have been a Raider for fourteen years, and my experience has been incredible! The best part of our school is the warm welcome shown to everyone by our students and teachers. In both the 1st and 5th grades I moved for about 6 months and when I came back to Houston Academy in the middle of the year, it felt as if I was back home. My sisters, Naya (9th grade) and Natalie (7th grade), along with my brother, Firas (3nd grade) have all been a part of the Raider family since 3P. I have played on the tennis team since the 7th grade and won state in 9th grade. I am part of the Student Government Association, Guidance Advisory Committee, The Enable Club, The Ark, The French Club, and Raider Ambassadors. I have also been selected for The Blue Zone and Discipline Committees, as well as the Honor Council. Additionally, I am the National Honor Society Treasurer. Outside of school, I am a teen volunteer at Flowers Hospital and a member of the Dothan Adolescent Clinic Youth Advisory Council. In the future, I hope to study medicine and become a dermatologist. I am confident that HA will fully prepare me for the future and provide me with all the support I need to follow my dreams. I am forever grateful to be part of the HA family. Go Raiders!
My name is Chase Buntin. I am a senior at Houston Academy, and I have been a part of the Raider family since 3P. I have a twin brother and two older sisters who have all attended HA. Through the school years, I have grown to love our school because of the welcoming community and peace of mind knowing I will be well prepared for college in the future. I play as a lineman on the varsity football team, throw discus for track and field, and I am very active in our school’s FCA. In the past, I have also played other sports, including wrestling, and tennis. I have been a part of many clubs at HA, including National Junior Honor Society, the Student Government Association, and The Harbor. I enjoy doing community service like Turkeys from Heaven every year, as well as attending Harvest Church. Since first grade, it has been my dream to either become an architect or engineer. For the future, I plan to stay close to Dothan by going to either the University of Alabama or Auburn.
My name is Whitney Cook. I am a junior at Houston Academy. This is my first year as a Raider Ambassador. I have attended Houston Academy since 3P alongside my 3 siblings who have all graduated from HA. I love Houston Academy because of its great environment and the teachers that have helped me grow not only as a student but to who I am today. I have played soccer since 7th grade and cheered for Houston Academy from 7th to 10th grade. I am involved in the Student Government Association, The Harbor club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Outside of School I attend First United Methodist Church and am a part of their youth group. Every summer I help work with VBS and spread the word of God’s love to lots of kids. In the future I hope to attend Auburn University and major in marketing. I am very proud to say that Houston Academy has thoroughly prepared me for the future. I cherish being a Raider Ambassador, because I get to show families what all HA has to offer and ensure new students and parents that Houston Academy is a great place to be.
My name is Mary Clare Davis, and I am a freshman at Houston Academy. I have attended Houston Academy since 3P. My brother Hugh, who has also been at HA since 3P, is in seventh grade. I have loved every year that I have been at HA. I enjoy all of the opportunities that the school offers academically along with extra curricular activities. I feel like I have a family here at school with a student body that is very kind and considerate. We have excellent teachers who support us academically and also take interest in what we do outside of academics. One of my favorite things that HA offers is the Raiderette Dance Team. It gives the dancers at the school an opportunity to be part of football season and grow in our art form. I am involved with several different clubs and other organizations at school. I am a member of the National Junior Honor Society. I attend First United Methodist Church, where I serve as an acolyte on Sundays and am an active member of my youth group. I enjoy serving at The Harbor. I am on the Dothan School of Dance Performance Team and a company member of the Southeast Alabama Dance Company. I am looking forward to my Upper School years here at HA. I know that I am in the best place to help me reach my goals.
My name is Amelia Eldridge. I am a Senior and have attended Houston Academy for six years. I love going to Houston Academy because of the amazing connections that you can make with so many peers and teachers. I have an older sister who is in her second year of college at Auburn, and my two younger siblings have attended HA for four years. I am a member of the National Honors Society, and I am in clubs such as the Ark and FCA. I have played on the HA soccer team since I was in the seventh grade. I am an active member of my youth group at church and regularly help with children’s ministry activities. I sing on the praise team at my church as well, and in my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family and playing my guitar. My dream is to attend college at Auburn University or the University of Alabama and become a nurse practitioner in Pediatrics.
My name is Macauley Flanagan, and I am a Senior at Houston Academy. I started my Raider journey in 3P. My brother, Michael T. (Class of 2020) and sister, Mary Mac (Class of 2021) were a part of the Raider family for fifteen years. I love attending Houston Academy because as a student, I feel like I’m part of an extended family. Faculty and students are dedicated and care for one another. Whether making a good grade on a test or cheering on classmates in extracurricular activities, the HA family is always supportive. A competitive gymnast, I started transitioning to school sports four years ago. I am a member of the Varsity Cheer team, Varsity Cross Country team, Varsity Indoor Track team, and Varsity Outdoor Track team. I’m also an active member of the National Honor Society, the Student Government Association, and The Ark. I am a member of Saint Columba Catholic Church, where I serve as an altar server. I volunteer for Turkeys from Heaven during the Christmas season to help provide meals for those in need. I look forward to my final high school year at Houston Academy. Go Raiders!
My name is Jordan Forrester, and I am a junior at Houston Academy. I have been at HA since 7th grade, and each year has presented me with new and engaging opportunities. I have been on the varsity basketball team since the 9th grade, I play goalie for the varsity soccer team, and I have also played baseball. I am in the National Honor Society, Student Government, Latin Club, and am a part of the Scholars Bowl team. Outside of school, I am a prominent member in my church and youth group. I spend Sunday nights volunteering at the Dothan Rescue Mission, and during the summer I play travel basketball. I am very thankful for the blessing to attend Houston Academy because it gives me so many opportunities that I would not have anywhere else. Here, I not only give myself the best academic trajectory, but I also get to continue to develop responsibility and leadership skills. I genuinely believe Houston Academy is an amazing school!
My name is Brianna Hart, and I am a Sophomore at Houston Academy. I have been a student here at HA since 3P, and I have learned so much over the years. My parents are both teachers at Houston Academy. One of my favorite things about this school is the extensive opportunities it provides. Many sports and clubs are offered at HA, so there are many ways to get involved. I am a part of the Varsity Cross Country, Indoor Track, and Outdoor Tracks teams, as well as a member of the Raider Ambassadors. I enjoy being a Raider Ambassador because it allows me to branch out and talk to new people, and it is a great opportunity to expand my leadership skills. I also love how kind and welcoming the student body is and how the teachers are always willing to help us when we don’t understand something. These past 12 years I’ve spent at Houston Academy have been incredible. I know HA will provide me with everything I need to succeed in my future at college, and I couldn’t be more grateful for every opportunity I have through Houston Academy.
My name is Megan Hartman, and I am a Junior at Houston Academy. I love Houston Academy because it is a small campus, has so many clubs, and provides me with the best opportunities to succeed. I have an older brother who attends Northside Methodist Academy. My mom is self-employed, and my father is a recently retired military veteran. During my years at Houston Academy, I have been a part of the volleyball and soccer teams, participated in musicals, HARmonix, and have been a part of the Model United Nation teams. I have also participated in NJHS, The Ark, Enable Club, and other various community service projects. I work with my church, babysit, and tutor during the school year. I would love to attend Berklee College of Music and work toward a musical career. I hope one day to perform and sing all over the world. I am excited to be a Raider Ambassador this year because of the experiences and life lessons it will teach me. Go Raiders!
My name is Maggie Hawker, and I am a Senior here at Houston Academy. I have been a student here since the seventh grade. I have been grateful for the countless opportunities that Houston Academy has provided me, from my academic work to volunteering in my community and many more. I have an older brother who is an HA alumni and a younger sister who is in eighth grade here at Houston Academy. I am involved in several extracurricular activities, including Raider Ambassadors, Student Government Association National Honor Society, the Blue Zone, and the Honor Council. Outside of school, I love to help out in my community and church by serving the Rescue Mission and several other organizations. I am excited about my future at Houston Academy and thankful to be a part of the community!
My name is Caroline Heersink, and I am a Freshman at Houston Academy. I have been an HA Raider for 5 years. I have two siblings who also attend HA and another one who hopes to attend when he’s old enough. I participate in many clubs and activities that HA facilitates including Model UN, JV Soccer Team, Cross Country Team, Outdoor Track Team, and National Junior Honor Society, and I am a Raider Ambassador as well. HA has taught me the value of hard work and time management. I enjoy the connections that are formed between peers and teachers at HA, who really invest in students. Houston Academy has helped me grow as a person. I appreciate the unique experiences, class, class offerings, excellent academics, and friendships I’ve made at Houston Academy.
My name is Jayleigh Jordan, and I am a Senior at Houston Academy. I transferred to HA in 8th grade to join my brother Jameson, who is now in 3rd grade. My first experience at Houston Academy gave me a great sense of belonging. Faculty and students welcomed me into the HA family with open arms. During my four years here I have been involved in several clubs such as Enable, Student Government Association, National Honor Society, and this year I am a Raider Ambassador. I have been selected for HOBY, National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF): Medicine, and the National Society of High School Scholars. Last year, I received a position in the band as Chief of the loading crew. This position taught me many important skills, such as speaking to others respectfully, being fully transparent to those you are working with, and having an overall happy spirit. This year I will start my second year on the majorette line. Outside of HA, I am a part of Hartford Baptist Church, where I volunteer in different outreach services. Since 9th grade, I have taken an early college course every summer so that I am preparing myself for life after graduation. I also volunteer at Southeast Medical Center to gain an understanding of all the tasks undertaken by different professions in a Hospital. HA has helped me transform into the person I am today. I have learned skills such as organization, integrity, persistence and how to learn from my mistakes, all of which will help me pursue my dream of working in the medical field. Although I’m not certain yet of what career I want to pursue, I am sure that HA has prepared me for success. GO RAIDERS!!
My name is Jansen Kirkland, and I am a junior at Houston Academy. I joined Houston Academy in the 6th grade and made the transition to this school to best prepare myself for the future. Everyone was so welcoming, and the environment quickly became natural to me. I also have two brothers, Davis, Class of 2024, and Bennett, a 6th grader who attends HA. I have taken advantage of many opportunities for involvement. These include soccer, Student Government Association, The Ark, The Harbor, Enable, and the National Honor Society. Quality education is a top priority of mine, and Houston Academy is helping to ensure my future success. My career interest is in the medical field, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of such an amazing school. I love this community and enjoy sharing my favorite things about it with others. Houston Academy equips me with the tools to succeed in life and help others. Serving as a Raider Ambassador allows me to grow and give back to my school. Go Raiders!
My name is Lib McRae and I am a freshman at Houston Academy. I started here in 3P, so I have been a Raider my entire life. I have an older brother who is a senior and a younger sister who is in 7th grade. My dad graduated from Houston Academy as well. Being at HA gives you a chance to be involved in lots of sports, and I have tried many of them. I am on the varsity cheer and soccer teams, and I’ve also played volleyball and basketball. I was also able to have a role in the middle school play when I was in 5th grade. There are many leadership opportunities as well. I am involved in the Student Government Association, Raider Ambassadors, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, The Ark Club and last year I served on the National Junior Honor Society Executive Committee. Outside of school I enjoy hanging out with family and friends, serving at my church, and attending youth group. I love Houston Academy, because it challenges me and prepares me for a successful future. Go Raiders!
My name is Wills McRae, and I am a Senior at Houston Academy. I have been at HA my whole life, starting out in 3P. I truly love this school because it has given me many opportunities to grow and succeed in academics, leadership, and sports. I have two sisters who attend HA in the 7th and 10th grades, and my dad is a graduate as well. Through athletics, I have been a member of the Varsity Cross Country team, Junior Varsity Football team, and am currently on the Varsity Tennis team. I also have served on the executive council of the National Junior Honor Society, and am a member of SGA and Secretary of National Honors Society. Outside of school, I am involved in my church youth group. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis and hanging out with friends and family. My many years at HA have shaped who I am, and I’m grateful for such a wonderful opportunity. Houston Academy has been a great experience, and I look forward to a successful senior year.
My name is Mary Helen Mendheim. I am a senior at Houston Academy, and I have attended HA since the sixth grade. Attending HA is such a privilege because of the opportunities it provides along with the challenging academics. Coming in sixth grade was one of the easiest transitions for me, because Houston Academy has always been so welcoming. I have an older sister, Sims, Class of 2023, and a younger sister, Campbell, who is in eighth grade. I am involved in many extracurricular and academic activities, including National Honor Society, Raider Ambassadors, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Student Government Association, the Ark Club, and the Varsity soccer and basketball teams. Outside of school, I have enjoyed being involved in my church and community. I have helped with Turkeys from Heaven, the Love Dothan Project, the Blaine Hardy Foundation, and many others. HA has developed my growth in many ways which will help me succeed in the future. I am so thankful to be a Raider, and I am looking forward to a great year!
My name is Jacque Morris, and I am a freshman at Houston Academy. I have attended Houston Academy since 3P, and my experience has been wonderful. My older brother and sister are HA graduates who both attend the University of Alabama. Houston Academy is an incredible school because of the magnificent education and the countless opportunities. When you join Houston Academy, you become a part of a family. It is a very positive environment and everyone uplifts each other. Teachers and faculty work their hardest to make Houston Academy a great place for everyone. During my time at this school, I have been involved in many extracurricular activities such as Raider Ambassador, member of National Junior Honors Society, the cheer team, and the soccer team. I enjoy hanging out with my family and friends, serving my church, traveling, and participating in church activities. Houston Academy is a great school that allows me to be the best version of myself. I am so thankful to be a HA Raider!
My name is Wilson Parrish, and I am a sophomore at Houston Academy. I have attended Houston Academy since seventh grade, and I have three sisters who also attend Houston Academy. One of the things that I love about Houston Academy is the welcoming environment. In seventh grade, I was nervous about transferring to a new school. I had no idea what it would be like. However, as soon as I came to HA, I felt extremely welcomed by my teachers and peers. The curriculum challenges me in the best ways possible, and I am surrounded by kind and supportive peers. I am involved with several clubs and athletics at Houston Academy. I have played many sports during my time as a Raider. I have played baseball, basketball, soccer, and football during my years at Houston Academy. I have also participated in many clubs such as the Student Government Association, National Junior Honor Society, Scholars Bowl, Interact, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the Middle School Math Team. I participate in Turkeys from Heaven during Christmas time with my family and Houston Academy. I am a member of Saint Columba Catholic Church, where I am an altar server. During the summer I work as a lifeguard at Azalea Swim and Tennis Club and the Dothan Country Club. Houston Academy prepares me for a successful future and I could not be happier. Go Raiders!
My name is Mary Helen Mendheim. I am a Junior at Houston Academy, and I have attended HA since the sixth grade. Attending HA is such a privilege to me because of the opportunities it provides along with the challenging academics. Coming in sixth grade was one of the easiest transitions for me, because Houston Academy has always been so welcoming. I have an older sister, Sims, who just graduated and is a freshman in college at the University of Alabama, and a younger sister, Campbell, who is in seventh grade. I am involved in many extracurricular and academic activities, including National Honor Society, Raider Ambassadors, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Student Government Association, the Ark Club, and the Varsity soccer, cheer, and basketball teams. Outside of school, I have enjoyed being involved in my church and community. I have helped with Turkeys from Heaven, the Love Dothan Project, the Blaine Hardy Foundation, and many others. HA has developed my growth in many ways which will help me succeed in the future. I am so thankful to be a Raider, and I am looking forward to a great year!
My name is Emmett Payne, and I am a Junior at HA. I have been at Houston Academy for four years, and I have enjoyed every minute. I also have a younger brother in 7th grade at HA. HA has given me many opportunities to succeed in academics and extracurricular activities. I am on the football, wrestling, and soccer teams. I am the Student Government Association secretary, and I am part of the Scholar’s Bowl team. Also, I am a member of the National Honor Society. Outside of school, I am active in my church’s youth group. I believe that HA is preparing me well for whatever I choose to pursue in the future, and I am proud to be a Raider Ambassador.
My name is Aidan Phillips. I am a freshman, and I have been enrolled at HA since kindergarten. My sister Hayley is currently in the 7th grade. HA has always been an amazing experience for me. No matter how hard my classes are or how much homework I have, I always enjoy every moment of being a part of HA. There is nothing like walking around this beautiful campus. I also am part of both the varsity cross country and soccer teams. Soccer has been my sport of choice since I was three years old. I have played for a variety of different teams, but I have spent most of my time at the Dothan Shockers. Inside of school I am involved with the National Junior Honor Society, Raider Ambassador, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. I am always excited to help new faces and ones known to our beautiful HA community.
My name is Abbie Grace Renshaw. I am a sophomore and I’ve been at Houston Academy since the seventh grade. My favorite part about HA is the amazing environment and how the teachers really care about us. I have two older siblings who enrolled at HA in the eighth grade, Lucius Renshaw, Class of 2023, and Maggie Renshaw who is currently a junior. I am a member of FCA, SGA, and I have played on the Junior Varsity and Varsity Girls’ Soccer team since seventh grade. I’ve played soccer for 11 years, including micro soccer, recreational soccer, and many years of club soccer. I’m an active member of my youth group at Covenant. I enjoy volunteering in the nursery, helping out with our kids’ ministry and participating in events within our youth group. As of right now, my plan is to attend Auburn University. Go Raiders!
My name is Claire Roberson, and I am a Senior at Houston Academy. I have been a part of the HA family since 2015 when my family moved to Dothan. I felt welcomed immediately, and there is no other school that I would rather call my own. I love Houston Academy for many reasons, but one of them is the opportunities we are given. This school has given me so many opportunities to help me become the best person I can be. You can join one of the multitude of clubs, become a member of one of the many amazing sports teams, and be challenged daily in the classroom. Not to mention, the faculty and students are extremely kind and caring. Someone is always willing to help. At HA, I am a part of the Indoor and Outdoor Track teams, the Student Government Association, the National Honor Society, the Ark, and Raider Ambassadors. Outside of school, I am a part of the Dothan Adolescent Clinic Youth Advisory Council and an active member of my church. I know without a doubt that Houston Academy will prepare me for college and whatever career I decide to pursue.
My name is Ayesha Sajid, and I am a Senior at Houston Academy. I have been part of the Raider community since my Freshman year. Adjusting to a new school can be challenging, but Houston Academy made it effortless. The atmosphere at HA is always encouraging, motivating, and welcoming. Houston Academy allowed me to become more confident and discover more about what I am passionate about by being involved in drama, and different clubs such as the Art Club and the Spanish Club. In addition, I am a member of the National Junior Honor Society and the Student Government Association. Outside of school, I volunteer at the Wiregrass Museum of Art and the Southeast Teenage Volunteer program to gain more experience in the careers I admire. After graduating from Houston Academy, I hope to pursue a career in the medical field. Houston Academy is a brilliant school that encourages me to be the best version of myself. Go Raiders!
My name is Lauren Sanders, and I am a sophomore at Houston Academy. This is my fifth year being a Raider and I have loved every minute. The teachers and students were so welcoming that I felt I had been there forever. My mom, Amiee Sanders, teaches at Houston Academy. I am on the JV volleyball team as well as the manager for the indoor and outdoor track and field teams. Aside from sports, I am a part of Raider Ambassadors, National Junior Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, 334 Prevention Project Youth Council, Student Government Association, and I volunteer at Flowers Hospital. In the future, I hope to be a part of the Dothan Adolescent Community Youth Advisory Council, and The Harbor. At the moment, I want to go into the Medical or Biomedical field and I feel that Houston Academy is the perfect place to accomplish my dreams. I will always be grateful to be a part of the Houston Academy family. Go Raiders!
My name is Olivia Shows, and I am a freshman at Houston Academy. This will be my seventh year as a Raider, and I have loved every minute of it. I have an older brother, Grant Shows, also a Raider Ambassador. I came to Houston Academy in the third grade, and remember being so nervous to begin. All of the girls in my grade welcomed me and helped me to adjust, even today I am still great friends with all of them. My favorite part of Houston Academy is the arts. I am a member of the Mighty Marching Raider band, twirling as a majorette for the marching band and playing the Tenor Saxophone in the concert band. I am passionate about painting and drawing, and I hope to go to college one day to study fine and studio arts. I have been part of the stage crew and helped with our theater productions, which is so much fun. The environment all the teachers and students create in the art department is so accepting and welcoming. Overall, the arts have to be my favorite part of Houston Academy. As a Raider Ambassador, I hope to serve and help our community. I love sharing my love for this school, and hope others can see what I do. Houston Academy is such a welcoming place and a great school to go to, and every day I am grateful to be here. Go Raiders!
My name is Grant Shows. I am a senior at Houston Academy and have a younger sister in the ninth grade who is also an ambassador. I have been part of HA for five years, and I have enjoyed every second. I really love our school, because I feel like everyone is connected and there is a true sense of community. HA has always made me feel welcome and has taught me something new each day. The number of extracurriculars at HA has impressed me from the start. I am part of the National Honor Society, the Scholar’s Bowl team, the Honor Council, and the soccer team. I participate in service projects, such as Turkeys from Heaven and Children’s Harbor. HA has taught me so many new things which have contributed to who I am today, and I would like to help others have the same positive experience.
My name is Abby Skinner, and I am a freshman at Houston Academy. I became a part of the HA family three years ago, when I transferred schools in 6th grade. I am originally from Montgomery, and I really worried how I was going to be accepted as I didn’t know anyone. However, on my first day of school, I was immediately welcomed by all the staff and students. As I continued attending Houston Academy, I realized that it became my home away from home. The teachers challenge me everyday, and I am surrounded by amazing peers who support me. I am a member of several clubs and activities provided by the school, such as the Swim team, Mighty Marching Raider Band, and the National Junior Honor Society. Outside of school, I love to read and enjoy swimming on the city swim team, the Dothan Dolphins. I have participated in the science fair two years in a row, where I qualified for district, regional, and state fairs. HA has helped to grow my love of math and science, and I know the teachers will help me achieve my goal of becoming an engineer. I have loved being a part of the HA community, and as a Raider Ambassador, I hope to spread my love of our school with many new families.
My name is Kaylee Beth Walker, and I am a junior at Houston Academy. I started at Houston Academy in the second grade, when my family moved from Birmingham to Dothan. My younger brother, Riley, started at HA in 4P, and my younger sister, Katherine, started when she turned 3. One of my favorite things about Houston Academy is the fact that we are a tight-knit family. With the small class size, I was able to really get to know my classmates as well as the students in the other grades. Also, the teachers are always available to help and genuinely care about their students. Another great thing about Houston Academy is that there are so many different opportunities to be involved in. I have been a part of the National Honor Society, Latin club, Enable, Raider Ambassador, and Yearbook staff. Outside of school, I am a competition gymnast and a summer camp counselor at United Gymstars. I am also a part of DAC YAC at Dothan Pediatrics. I plan to pursue a degree in elementary education, and I know my time at Houston Academy will prepare me well for college, as well as my future. Go Raiders!
My name is Mary Parker Williams, and I am a sophomore at Houston Academy. I have attended HA since 3P along with my brothers, Brody (Class of 2024) and Harris (7th grade). I enjoy Houston Academy, because it is truly a caring environment where positivity and encouragement are demonstrated repeatedly. My teachers are always willing to help and act in a student’s best interests. Here at Houston Academy, I have had the opportunity to play Varsity tennis as well as contribute to the Student Government Association, National Junior Honors Society, The Harbor, Enable, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Additionally, I am a part of the Dothan Adolescent Community Youth Advisory Council, where I work to benefit my community and make it a safer place. I participate in the Youth Group and Small Group at First Presbyterian Church of Dothan every week. I also enjoy helping with mission work for my church. A lot of my time is spent participating in these extracurriculars, and I have benefitted a lot through that experience. When you become involved in your community, you learn responsibility and independence. It also serves as an opportunity to manage and balance your time so you can spend it with friends and family, too. It is my hope to go to medical school once I graduate from Houston Academy and become a medical practitioner. This is only possible because of the excellent education and community Houston Academy provides. Being a Raider Ambassador allows me to represent the school I love and that is why I am so honored to be in this position.