School History

About Harper DAEP

Harper DAEP is a small public high school located in Houston, Texas, serving students in grades 9–12. It is part of the Houston Independent School District (HISD) and provides a focused and supportive environment designed to help students get back on track academically and behaviorally. Nearby schools include Booker T. Washington High School, Waltrip High School, and Scarborough High School.

School History

Originally built in 1927, Harper DAEP was relocated to its current campus at 4425 N. Shepherd Dr. in 2007.

Frances Ellen Watkins Harper

The school is named in honor of Frances Ellen Watkins Harper (1825–1911), a distinguished African-American poet, author, abolitionist, and suffragist.

Born free in Baltimore, Maryland, Harper published her first book of poetry at the age of 20 and gained widespread recognition with her novel Iola Leroy at 67. She became a public speaker and political activist after joining the American Anti-Slavery Society in 1853 and later co-founded the National Association of Colored Women in 1894.

Her lifelong commitment to education, equality, and justice continues to inspire the mission and values of Harper DAEP today.