Billy Reagan has devoted more than 50 years to improving education. Reagan earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Texas and a doctorate from the University of Nebraska. He served as the Superintendent of HISD for 12 years. During that time, he implemented a basic-skills competency program that led to a district-wide accountability system. He created a Magnet school system as a tool to achieve integration, which became a national model. He also appointed the first female African-American Principal to a secondary school.

“During that period of time, we were still desegregating schools,” said Reagan. “We worked with the community and staff to be able to reach our goal of getting unitary status. It was a challenge, but we achieved it.”

Now at 78, Reagan is still active in education by conducting research and providing consulting on educational issues.

“It’s the highest honor that I’ve had in my life,” said Reagan. “It’s a dream come true since I believe very strongly in the K-8 organizational concept. It’s something that I never ever expected, I’m just grateful for everyone that I had an opportunity to work with over the years.”