Devonta Hicks, pronounced “Devonte,” moved to Alief in the fifth grade and quickly found his place within the district’s vibrant community. He attended Miller Intermediate, Albright Middle School, and ultimately graduated from Hastings High School in 2012, earning honors as Magna Cum Laude. One of his most cherished memories from his time in Alief ISD was witnessing the Hastings Big Bear Marching Band earn straight 1’s at UIL for the first time in nearly 12 years—an achievement that left a lasting impression.
From a young age, he knew he wanted to dedicate his life to helping others, whether through teaching, therapy, or psychology. Initially envisioning a career as a history teacher, his path shifted during a pivotal conversation at summer band camp before his senior year. His band director saw his leadership potential as a section leader and suggested that becoming a band director would be a natural fit—a suggestion that would eventually shape his future.
Today, Hicks serves as the head band director at Elsik High School and the Team Lead for band programs across middle and high schools in the district. He finds great fulfillment in giving back to the community that helped him. Beyond teaching, he works behind the scenes in curriculum development for the band department, enhancing the educational experience for countless students.
His time in Alief ISD—particularly in band, speech, and debate—inspired invaluable life skills. He developed a strong sense of high-level performance, time management, confidence in public speaking, and a resilient work ethic. These lessons continue to play a vital role in both his professional and personal life.
Hicks believes his work makes a meaningful impact on the community by inspiring purpose in students. He recognizes that education goes beyond academics; for many students, band becomes their motivation, encouraging them to arrive early, stay late, and invest deeply in their future. He takes pride in fostering a culture where students care about their education and their long-term success.
Staying connected to Alief ISD is a priority for him. His band programs regularly tour the district, performing at middle schools for recruitment and energizing elementary and intermediate campuses with pep rallies during state testing seasons. They also support TIA winners, further contributing to district pride.
His advice to current students aspiring to enter his field is heartfelt and honest: while the job isn’t easy, the joy of creating and producing art daily makes it worthwhile. He emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from loving your career rather than simply chasing financial gain.
To him, success is personal growth—recognizing how far one has come and planning the next steps forward. He is incredibly proud of the accomplishments achieved with the Elsik Mighty Ram Band, including a sweepstakes award. One of his most memorable recent achievements was seeing ten of his students perform at the Labor Day Classic with TSU and PVAMU bands. Four of those students were from Elsik, and together they earned nearly $100,000 in scholarship funds.
Reflecting on his journey, he credits Alief ISD with shaping him into a resilient, adaptable leader who values diversity and connects with people from all walks of life. The care and dedication of his former teachers deeply influenced the educator he is today.
He extends a heartfelt message to those who guided and inspired him: gratitude to his high school band directors for their passion, and appreciation to speech and debate coaches Mr. A and Ms. Ogubanjo for helping him find his voice. To his students, he offers an empowering reminder: “The sky is the limit. You can truly do anything if you put your mind to it! I love you!!!” And of course, he proudly gives a big shoutout to the Hastings Class of 2012.
Through his leadership, dedication, and passion, Devonta Hicks continues to uplift his community—proving that the foundation built in Alief ISD can lead to lifelong success and purpose.