Highland View Elementary School

County Executive Isiah Leggett Visits Young Black Men with Promise

On December 9th, Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett captivated an audience of youngsters participating in the Young Black Men with Promise program, their mentors, family, and staff at Highland View Elementary School. Dr. Barbara Covington, the school’s Media Specialist, and Dr. Jeff Van Collins, a mentor, are co-directors of this program. They invited Mr. Leggett to share his life experiences that ultimately led him to become Montgomery County Executive.

The Importance of Family

Mr. Leggett was one of 13 children who grew up in a humble family in Deweyville, Texas, during the Jim Crow era. His parents stressed the importance of education, the willingness to work hard, and to maintain moral and ethical standards.

The County Executive was very candid in discussing his childhood experiences. When referring to his parents, Mr. Leggett confessed, "I listened at times, but should have listened all the time." He urged the youngsters to "always listen to your parents and your teachers" because they have your best interests at heart.

An Interest in Sports

It was young Isiah’s interest in reading football box scores that motivated him to read. As he read more about the sport, it sparked his interest in becoming a football player. His high school coach also recognized this young athlete’s ability and encouraged him to pursue this endeavor.

Mr. Leggett also used this opportunity to encourage the families and teachers in the audience to discover the personal interests of the students to motivate children to read more and simultaneously learn more about their passions in life.

Willingness to Work Hard

Living the values his parents instilled in him, Mr. Leggett attended Southern University and worked his way through college as a member of the maintenance crew. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree and as a Distinguished Military Graduate. He continued his education, receiving a Juris Doctorate from Howard University and a Master of Laws from George Washington University.
 

A Difficult and Challenging Life

As Mr. Leggett reflected on the challenges he encountered and shared his academic and political accomplishments, he modestly stated, "I didn’t think I was much of an exception," compared with other children. He highlighted the three key values his parents taught him:

1. Have "a quest for knowledge." You need to be smart, to be well-informed.
2. Have "a willingness to work hard."
3. Have "moral and ethical standards."

Mr. Leggett continued to explain that friends might tempt them to experiment with drugs and/or become involved in activities that may be dangerous or against the law. He highlighted the fact that these individuals are not really their friends if they are asking them to do things that are wrong. Mr. Leggett asked the students to carefully consider their actions and have the moral and ethical convictions to do the right thing.

The County Executive encouraged the students to "Think, love yourselves, and reach for the stars!"

Some Highlights from the County Executive's Visit

Learn more about the Young Black Men with Promise program.