At Hempstead High School, leadership doesn’t always come with a title; it’s often shown through service, reliability, and the quiet influence of someone who chooses to make their school a better place. This month, one student was recognized for doing exactly that. As the recipient of the December Superintendent's Higher Heights Award, this HHS junior has earned recognition from teachers, staff, and administrators for their strong school pride and commitment to making Hempstead High School a better place.
For Derrick Reed, making an impact begins with service. Whether he’s helping teachers move materials around their classrooms, volunteering his time on tasks across the district, or stepping in wherever an extra hand is needed, he takes pride in being someone others can count on.
“I think I've made a positive impact on my teachers by helping them with things they need to get done,” Reed shared. “I also try to be someone my peers can look at and maybe take inspiration from.”
Beyond the classroom, Reed stays actively involved in school life through a variety of leadership and service roles. As a band manager, he supports the band program behind the scenes, helping ensure practices, performances, and game days run smoothly. He also serves as a member of the Superintendent’s Bobcat Advisory Council, where he represents student voices and contributes thoughtful input on district initiatives and campus culture. On home football game days and during home soccer matches, he can often be found working the scoreboard camera, playing a key role in creating a professional, exciting game-day experience for the school community. Through each of these roles, he consistently shows his commitment to Hempstead High School and his willingness to step up wherever help is needed.
His motivation isn’t about recognition, it’s about purpose. He loves being involved on campus, supporting people during stressful times, and building a positive reputation rooted in hard work and kindness.
“What motivates me is being able to get my name known in a positive way while also helping people,” he said.
That dedication is exactly why this award holds special meaning for him.
“Receiving the Superintendent’s Higher Heights Award makes me feel like I’m doing something right,” he explained. “It tells me I’m doing a good job with what I’m involved in, and that my peers, teachers, and the faculty recognize it.”
With his junior year of high school in full swing, he’s already thinking about the future, and his goals are grounded in generosity and ambition. He dreams of building a successful career that allows him to take care of his future family, help others meet essential needs, and create opportunities for his future children to learn and explore the world.
“I want to make enough money to help people who need it, and I want to set aside money for my kids and travel with my family.”
When asked what advice he would give to other students who want to make an impact at Hempstead High School, his message is both practical and powerful.
“Get your name out there in a good way and never let your toolbox be empty.”
To him, that means gaining as much experience and education as possible so that doors stay open, no matter what challenges come along.
His impact is a reminder that true leadership is rooted in service, heart, and the desire to lift others higher. At Hempstead High School, he’s already doing that every day, and this award simply shines a spotlight on the impact he’s making.