Legacies left behind

Published 1:11 pm Thursday, November 7, 2019

Dr. Rickie R. Harris

Over the past few years, I have shared guest columns that have focused upon many different areas of West Orange – Cove CISD. Recent columns have informed the community of the progress of our bond projects and some of the outstanding less-known programs housed within the walls of West Orange-Stark High School. However, today I will focus upon two individuals who have left exceptional legacies for our Mustang community.

As you know, Reggie “Clutch” Garrett was a Mustang student, leader, and athlete who left a legacy within the halls and walls of our entire school system. He coined the term “112%” through how he handled himself in all aspects of his life. 

On Friday, Oct. 25, 2019, the WOC Education Foundation recognized this legacy through a special dedication of “112%” turf which has been stitched onto the playing surface at our High School football stadium in two locations on the home side. 

Our combined hope is that every time a student or fan sees the phrase “112%,” they will remember Reggie’s commitment to perform at 112% and choose to do so in their everyday life, as well. “112%” is a far-reaching legacy of which we can all be very proud. It will continue to influence Mustangs through the years to come.

Another legacy that continues to touch our district is that of a man who often worked behind the scenes. Dennis Doggett bled blue and silver. From the time I arrived in the district, Mr. Doggett demonstrated that he was a Mustang. There were two things obvious about him. First, Mr. Doggett was a Christian and his faith was strong. Second, Mr. Doggett had a great love for his wife. 

Oftentimes, he could bring you to tears in sharing his declarations of love for his spouse. 

Most of his conversations would also include how much he also loved WOS High School and its students. Anyone with tenure within our district knows and appreciates the contributions that Mr. Doggett made weekly to our students. 

For example, Mr. Doggett and his wife purchased the first large inflatable Mustang helmet from which the varsity football team would enter the field at Friday night football games. He was a dedicated volunteer at the district’s community study labs of the past; and, he also spent many afternoons tutoring students at the High School who needed additional math instruction. 

He graciously shared his deep baritone voice for the narration of the “WOCCISD: This is What We Do” video which can be viewed in the video gallery of our district website. Just this week, Mr. Doggett again showed his love for WOCCISD by making a significant monetary contribution through his last will and testament for WOS High School students to attend Lamar University for the study of engineering. 

Even after life, Dennis Doggett continues his huge impact upon our students, both now and in the future.

The legacies of Reggie Garrett Jr. and Dennis Doggett exemplify WOCCISD’s vision of empowering lives through excellence every day! We believe in John Maxwell’s philosophy that “One is too small a number to achieve greatness.”

Go Mustangs!

 

Dr. Rickie R. Harris is the Superintendent at West Orange – Cove CISD