As he continued to recruit the best teachers from Fisk and Tennessee A&I State College, his vision was to provide the best education to his students.
As an administrator, he served as principal of Bedford County Training School employed by the Bedford County School System and the Elementary Principal for the Shelbyville City Schools System. Even though the two schools with a "breezeway" separated them, the gym and cafeteria served both schools.
One of his most creative athletic endeavors was the establishment of the "Gold Ball Bowl" in 1961. On December 6, 1963, Harris High School, with a record of 11-0, and Haynes High School, with a record of 11-0, played in the third bowl game. The Gold Ball Bowl score history summarized: in 1961—Harris High 19; Haynes High 20; 1962—Harris High 12; Haynes High 12. Professor Harris knew the importance of traditions and high school rivalries. His marketing skills during half-time were the five guineas turned loose on the field, and lucky ticket holders received five turkeys. His efforts to recognize financial community support were exemplary.
The Civitan Club of Shelbyville sponsored the game, and the individuals, L.C. Fristzche, President; bowl committee—June Harrel and Otto Renegar. Admission was $1.25 at the door, and presale tickets were $1.00 at Shelbyville Central High School, Harris School, Brantley Drug Store, Dixie Service Station (owned by Mr. and Mrs. Ell T. Biggers), Daugherty Drug Store, Johnson's Center, Smith's Drive-In Market, Taylor's Pharmacy, and members of the Civitan Club.
During a fishing trip to Bayes Fish Camp in Town Creek, Alabama, he suffered a massive heart attack approximately one week before the 1965 Harris High School graduation. Professor Will Porter Martin was appointed Principal of Harris High School and continued as Principal until 1966.
Professor Harris served as Principal of Bedford County Training School (BCTS) and Harris High Schools for over 40 years. These years of segregation provided numerous financial challenges because of educational disparities. Elementary and high school students always received "used" textbooks from their "white" counterparts. Parents, grandparents, local businesses, and concerned individuals provided various methods of supporting the diverse academic, athletic, and fine arts activities.
He died of a heart attack in Town Creek, Lawrence, Alabama, while on a fishing trip. He was 57 years old.
FHL Film Number: 1909078
He was the principal of Bedford County Training School which was renamed to Harris High School in his honor.
J.A. Welton & Son Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.
As he continued to recruit the best teachers from Fisk and Tennessee A&I State College, his vision was to provide the best education to his students.
As an administrator, he served as principal of Bedford County Training School employed by the Bedford County School System and the Elementary Principal for the Shelbyville City Schools System. Even though the two schools with a "breezeway" separated them, the gym and cafeteria served both schools.
One of his most creative athletic endeavors was the establishment of the "Gold Ball Bowl" in 1961. On December 6, 1963, Harris High School, with a record of 11-0, and Haynes High School, with a record of 11-0, played in the third bowl game. The Gold Ball Bowl score history summarized: in 1961—Harris High 19; Haynes High 20; 1962—Harris High 12; Haynes High 12. Professor Harris knew the importance of traditions and high school rivalries. His marketing skills during half-time were the five guineas turned loose on the field, and lucky ticket holders received five turkeys. His efforts to recognize financial community support were exemplary.
The Civitan Club of Shelbyville sponsored the game, and the individuals, L.C. Fristzche, President; bowl committee—June Harrel and Otto Renegar. Admission was $1.25 at the door, and presale tickets were $1.00 at Shelbyville Central High School, Harris School, Brantley Drug Store, Dixie Service Station (owned by Mr. and Mrs. Ell T. Biggers), Daugherty Drug Store, Johnson's Center, Smith's Drive-In Market, Taylor's Pharmacy, and members of the Civitan Club.
During a fishing trip to Bayes Fish Camp in Town Creek, Alabama, he suffered a massive heart attack approximately one week before the 1965 Harris High School graduation. Professor Will Porter Martin was appointed Principal of Harris High School and continued as Principal until 1966.
Professor Harris served as Principal of Bedford County Training School (BCTS) and Harris High Schools for over 40 years. These years of segregation provided numerous financial challenges because of educational disparities. Elementary and high school students always received "used" textbooks from their "white" counterparts. Parents, grandparents, local businesses, and concerned individuals provided various methods of supporting the diverse academic, athletic, and fine arts activities.
He died of a heart attack in Town Creek, Lawrence, Alabama, while on a fishing trip. He was 57 years old.
FHL Film Number: 1909078
He was the principal of Bedford County Training School which was renamed to Harris High School in his honor.
J.A. Welton & Son Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.
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