35 Years of The Honor Roll School

A Message from the Founder

Lisa Liang

After working as a public school teacher, I realized that many educational philosophies, pedagogies, and instructional methodologies could never be applied in the classroom due to the constraints and realities that public schools face.

When I relocated from Los Angeles to Houston, I had the opportunity to either return to teaching at a public school or start a school where I could apply what I had learned. In 1991, I founded The Honor Roll School. The school opened with 50+ students in the Infant through pre-kindergarten programs, aiming to add one grade each year until we reached 8th grade. This gradual expansion allowed us to create a cohesive educational program focused on child development and high student achievement.

I knew that our education must begin in the earliest years of a child’s life. Its impact can foster interest and success in students’ later learning. Research and my own experience have shown me that when children are nurtured in an enriched, motivating environment during their formative years, they not only acquire academic knowledge and skills but also foster curiosity, build confidence, and develop a genuine love of life-long learning.

As the school community grew, so did our need for space and opportunity. In 1994, we constructed a new building on a 4-acre campus, creating additional space for both physical and educational expansion. Over the next six years, we continued to invest in our facilities, adding a building approximately every three years to support our growing student body and evolving program offerings.

At the heart of the school was a clear vision and philosophy: to create a stimulating, creative, and challenging learning environment through age-appropriate strategies that inspired students to become lifelong learners. Equally important was our commitment to character development. We emphasized the values of honor, respect, and responsibility, as well as a strong work ethic, believing that education must shape not only the mind but also the character of each child.

We provided a strong framework for both students and teachers- establishing clear achievement goals and equipping classrooms with abundant learning resources. At the same time, we trusted and empowered our teachers by giving them the freedom to bring creativity and individuality into their instructions. This balance allowed educators to focus their time and energy where it mattered most: engaged and inspiring their students.

We also recognized that education is a shared journey. Parents were not just observers, but partners in their children’s education. Their involvement and support were integral to the success of our students and school.

In 2005, I decided to sell The Honor Roll to Nobel Learning Communities, embracing a new opportunity to extend my educational vision internationally by building a school abroad. While that chapter marked a transition, the foundational principles on which the school was built continue to guide and extend its original vision through many more committed and caring educators.

Over the years, I have continued to run into many former parents who let me know about their children’s accomplishments and the foundation we have given them. After 35 years, it is truly gratifying to see that this school, which began with the simple desire of promoting an enriched education to a small group of students, has grown into a vibrant learning community grounded in its vision, values, and commitment to excellence. It has been one of the greatest blessings and a privilege to have founded The Honor Roll School, which has definitely made my life more meaningful.

35 Years, One Family

Founded in 1991, The Honor Roll School in Sugar Land has been known for its excellence in preschool through 8th grade education. Parents have complimented us on our passionate and dedicated teachers, our standards-based curriculum, and our understanding of the needs of each child.

At The Honor Roll School, we are more than just a school – we’re a family.

Join the Celebration

Were you part of our journey? We’re excited to hear your story!

Share your memories, stories, and well wishes — and be featured in our anniversary video and article.

How to Participate:

Send 2–3 photos (bonus: hold the anniversary logo!)
Write a short story or update
Record a 1–2 minute video (landscape format)
Join an interview (contact us for details)
Send your stories to: thrs@thrs.org

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Alumni Story Highlights

Alumni Testimonial

“As a proud 2017 alumnus of THRS, I can confidently say this school holds a special place in my heart. From the moment I walked through its halls as a bright-eyed Pre-K student, I was immersed in an environment filled with love, encouragement, and support. THRS was more than just a school; it was a second home where every day felt like an opportunity to learn, grow, and build lasting connections.

The school’s emphasis on Honor, Respect, and Responsibility became the foundation of my character. These principles guided me as I graduated from Strake Jesuit College Preparatory in 2021 and continue to support me as I pursued my Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing at the University of Houston.

From academics to sports and beyond, the experiences and lessons I gained here have been instrumental in shaping me into the man I am today. I am incredibly proud to be part of the THRS legacy and will always cherish the memories and values it instilled in me.”

-Alex May, THRS Class of 2017