   
John Freeman Hightower
1913-2005
John Freeman Hightower was born on August 1, 1913. He attended public school
in Oklahoma. Before entering high school, all eighth grade students in the state
of Oklahoma had to take a prerequisite state exam. Mr. Hightower was recognized
for having the highest score in his county (Muskogee).
Mr. Hightower attended college at Huston-Tillotson College and graduated Cum
Laude with degrees in biology and mathematics. He later earned his Master's
degree in Administration from Texas Southern University. Mr. Hightower completed
further study toward a doctorate at the University of North Texas at Denton and
the University of California at Sacramento, California.
Mr. Hightower began his career in education as a biology teacher in Anton,
Texas. He later moved to Plano where he began teaching math and science and
coaching basketball at the formerly all-black Frederick Douglass School. He
became the principal four years later. In 1974 Mr. Hightower became the first
black person to be named Plano Citizen of the Year.
During the desegregation years, Mr. Hightower strongly pushed for integration
in the Plano school district, even when it meant risking his job. He worked to
ensure that black teachers and black-themed educational materials were
represented in the school district. He was later appointed director of special
services.
Throughout his career Mr. Hightower touched the lives of students in many
capacities. This included serving as a counselor in special services department
and coordinator of ethnic relations prior to his retirement. He retired in 1986.
The school district named him as one of its 100 heroes in 1999.
Mr. Hightower was active in many community groups, including the Plano
Community Forum, the Plano Rotary Club, the YMCA and the Collin County Committee
on Aging.
Mr. Hightower died June 1, 2005. His involvement in educational, community,
and civic affairs remains an inspiration to the students and families in Plano.
John Freeman Hightower Foundation
The John Freeman Hightower Foundation, established by family and friends in
1998, honored Professor John Freeman Hightower for his lifelong commitment and
dedication to education, to the development of youth, and to the betterment of
his community. Fellowship awards of up to $5,000 for tuition and books for
attendance at an accredited college or university of choice are awarded to a
graduating senior from the Plano Independent School District who plans to major
in education. Donations may be made year round to:
John Freeman Hightower Scholarship Foundation
P.O. Box 860846
Plano, TX 75086-0846
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