Octavia Biresaw-Cobb’s connection with Harmony Public Schools spans nearly two decades, beginning as one of the first graduating students at the first Harmony campus, Harmony School Academy-Braeswood and evolving into a valued member of the Harmony team. Octavia is currently the Campus Coordinator for Testing and Federal Programs at Harmony School of Excellence-Katy Middle/High. Beyond her successful career with Harmony, Octavia has also embraced a fulfilling personal life, having married and lovingly raised two wonderful sons, who bring her immense joy and pride. Her journey reflects not only personal growth but also the expansion and transformation of Harmony itself.

Octavia’s journey began in 2003, when she entered Harmony as a Junior. By the time she graduated in 2005, she was part of the very first graduating class at Harmony School of Achievement, Braeswood. "It felt like a family because it was so small," Octavia recalls of her time in the early stages of Harmony. Back then, Harmony was a tight-knit community, and Octavia's experience as a student gave her a unique perspective on the growth of the school.

Octavia has seen Harmony grow in numerous ways since her graduation. “The events are larger, and the schools are bigger,” she reflects when comparing the early days to the present. While Harmony started as a small, family-like community, it has expanded into a dynamic educational network.

Despite this growth, Octavia maintains close relationships with her former classmates, keeping in touch with close friends. “We have remained really good friends over the years,” she says, emphasizing the strong bonds that were formed during her time as a student at Harmony.

Octavia’s path took an exciting turn in 2009 when she began working at Harmony’s Ingenuity campus after completing an internship. She had always felt a strong connection to the community at Harmony, and this internship allowed her to further explore her passion for education. “I found a good group of people at Harmony,” she shares, describing the supportive and collaborative environment that drew her to stay. Her decision to work for Harmony was, in many ways, a natural next step. “It felt like the right fit,” she explains. “I didn’t necessarily plan to choose a career in education—it chose me when Harmony called me.” 

When asked about her dreams and aspirations for her career in the future, Octavia simply said, "It’s hard to kind of imagine anything else." This speaks to the deep connection she has with her work and the fulfillment she has within the Harmony community. For Octavia, education isn't just a job—it's a passion and a calling that she can't imagine leaving behind.

Octavia’s story is a beautiful example of how one’s journey can evolve, and how a sense of family, commitment to growth, and love for what you do can shape a truly rewarding career. Her deep connection to Harmony, both as a student and now as an educator, showcases the profound impact this institution has had on her life—and how, in turn, she has helped shape the future of Harmony itself.