As Heritage celebrates its sixtieth anniversary, the school honored founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. William Laurie by dedicating the football field to him Friday, Aug. 30. The field was renamed Bill Laurie Stadium. The Patriot dancers, band and cheerleaders helped the Lauries celebrate at the naming ceremony. Mr. Laurie started the school with the American Academy in 1962, which has now expanded to American Heritage Schools. At first, Mr. Laurie only had one student, second grader Jimmy Hepp. Hepp played golf and tried teaching Mr. Laurie, but “it wasn’t very successful,” Mr. Laurie said. At the time the school opened, the city of Plantation had only around 3,000 residents, while Sunrise and Broward Blvd were only two-lane roads. So over the years, Mr. Laurie has seen lots of growth.
Mr. Laurie actually founded the American Academy for children with mild learning differences first. When it opened, Mr. Laurie’s only goal in life was to teach students with learning disabilities such as ADHD and dyslexia.
Although the CEO and founder of Heritage, Mr Laurie couldn’t do it all by himself. He gives lots of credit to his employees, “I’ve had wonderful employees that have bought into the Heritage concept and made it grow and be successful in the way it is,” Mr. Laurie said. Having these employees helped with the growth of the school due to their dedication and passion. Heritage will continue to grow, as President Dr. Douglas Laurie plans for the future by continually getting better, offering even more programs and possibly adding more buildings.
Prior to the dedication, SGA hosted its first annual tailgate in the Oasis with pizza and live music. After the dedication, the Patriots football team beat the Western Wildcats 51-12.
In the back, the Patriot band played music for the dedication. In front of them are the Patriot dancers and cheerleaders. From left to right is President Dr. Douglas Laurie, founder Mr. Laurie and Vice President Ms. Leslie Woods. (Photo/Adiya Mukhitdinov)
Live music at SGA tailgate. Here, senior Jaden Mantis sings, while seniors Aubrey Caprara and Rafeal Niemtschik play the guitar. Junior Gavin Thornton plays the drums. (Photo/Adiya Mukhitdinov)
Heritage field was renamed Bill Laurie Stadium after Mr. William Laurie. (Photo/Emma Delgado)
