Pearl of Wisdom: Teaching More Than Lessons at HMS

At Houston Middle School, you’ll spot Pearl Holland by the steady calm she brings to a busy hallway and, on spirit days, by the big red wig she rocks for the House of Percheron. As HMS’s RISE nominee, Pearl is recognized for the day-in, day-out excellence she brings to students and staff.

Principal ShaMira Davis put it plainly saying, “Pearl Holland is an extraordinary paraprofessional who goes above and beyond every single day. She’s far more than an extra set of hands in the classroom; she’s a trusted educator who can step in seamlessly at a moment’s notice. In addition to supporting students, she tutors in ELA through Title I, helping young learners grow in confidence and skill. Her Mustang pride shines bright. Simply put, HMS is a better place because Ms. Holland is here.”

Pearl’s path to HMS grew out of more than a decade serving in special needs ministry at local churches. Now pursuing a graduate degree to become a licensed professional counselor, she begins her practicum and internship this year and plans to learn on the front lines at a local crisis center. The graduate work informs her school day and vice versa. “This is a demanding job that stretches my patience and humility,” she said. “It’s growing me in ways that will make me a better counselor.”

Each of Pearl’s students has an IEP with individualized goals, and she supports progress on those goals while helping students engage with peers across the building. In the mornings, she moves through WIN classes across sixth, seventh, and eighth grade, providing targeted support for students who haven’t yet met benchmarks. Midday, she accompanies students to elective classes, encouraging collaboration with peers and independence during projects like picture day. In the gym, she helps students with physical limitations participate safely while also being seen by their classmates as teammates. Back in specialized instruction, she adapts to the needs of the roster, whether that means academic work, reading, or personal care. “We’re supporting skills, but we’re also modeling for peers how to see our students as classmates first - people with likes, dislikes, and talents,” Pearl explained.

Colleagues say she is the teammate everyone can count on. Alissa Betchick, the ESE teacher she supports, credits Pearl with widening the lens for the whole team. “Pearl thinks about the student as a whole, school and home, and brings out-of-the-box ideas that make me a better teacher,” Betchick said. She pointed to a student who once struggled with relationship-building, and that student is now thriving. “Her connections are real and they change lives.”

Paraprofessional Josh Young added, “Ms. Pearl is by far one of the top three coworkers I’ve ever had. She keeps cool under pressure, and I couldn’t get through the day without her.”
Beyond the classroom, Pearl’s school spirit is nearly legendary. She is a go-to for Title I tutoring and the first to volunteer when a teammate needs coverage or a project needs an extra hand. Her blend of humor, warmth, and professionalism sets the tone. Pearl calls HMS’s culture “family,” and it shows in the way students and staff light up when they see her. For the Mustangs, she’s a steady guide, a joyful presence, and a trusted paraprofessional who helps students take the next step forward.