For two decades, students at Harmony Science Academy-Fort Worth knew exactly where to find Luiz Mullini Nascimento.

He was in the music room helping a nervous student prepare for a performance. Leading rehearsals for Fine Arts Night. Teaching elementary students their first guitar chords. Encouraging children who had never stood in front of an audience to find confidence on a stage.

Day after day, year after year, he showed up.

When Mullini Nascimento retires May 27, he will leave Harmony Public Schools with a distinction few educators can claim. School leaders say he never missed a single day of work during his 20 years at Harmony Science Academy-Fort Worth.

But colleagues say his legacy cannot be measured by attendance alone.

Ahead of his final day on campus, State Rep. Ramón Romero Jr. honored Mullini Nascimento with an official signed State of Texas resolution recognizing his decades of service to North Texas students. The resolution was presented during a retirement celebration attended by staff, students, and community members, where District Director Emerico Perez presented the recognition on Romero’s behalf.

For many in attendance, the moment reflected the impact of a teacher whose influence stretched far beyond music instruction.

“Mr. Mullini created experiences our students will remember for the rest of their lives,” said Principal Stephanie Wynn. “His dedication, kindness, and commitment to students helped define the culture of our campus.”

Originally from Vitória, Brazil, Mullini Nascimento first discovered music through church choirs and youth music programs before studying orchestral conducting and music education. After moving to the United States for graduate studies, he realized teaching offered an opportunity not just to perform music, but to build something lasting for young people.

“I wanted to conduct an orchestra, but first I had to create one,” he once wrote while reflecting on his path into education.

That philosophy shaped his career at Harmony.

After joining Harmony Science Academy-Fort Worth as a part-time music teacher, he transitioned into a full-time role within two months and began helping build the campus fine arts program from the ground up. Over the years, he helped establish traditions including Harmony Around the World and Fine Arts Night, programs that gave students opportunities to showcase their talents while bringing families and cultures together.
 

Thousands of students passed through his classroom over the course of 22 years in education, including 20 years with Harmony Public Schools. Many arrived uncertain of themselves. Some had never performed publicly before. Others simply needed a place where they felt seen and encouraged.

Mullini Nascimento gave them that space.

During the May 15 celebration, students presented him with handwritten tribute books, artwork, and a custom rocking chair commemorating his retirement. As Perez read aloud the state resolution honoring a teacher who made “a profound and positive difference in the lives of countless young Texans,” staff members applauded and students embraced the educator who had guided so many of them through their formative years.

“Harmony helped me fulfill my passion for teaching music,” Mullini Nascimento said.

Soon, another teacher will stand at the front of the classroom he leaves behind. New students will fill the chairs. New performances will take shape.

But the traditions he built, the confidence he inspired, and the countless students he encouraged to step into the spotlight will remain part of Harmony Science Academy-Fort Worth long after his final curtain call.