Graduating from high school is always a milestone worth celebrating. For some students, however, this achievement represents far more than crossing a stage—it symbolizes breaking barriers, creating new opportunities, and changing the trajectory of an entire family.
McKinney ISD proudly honors students who will be the first in their immediate family to earn a high school diploma through the district’s First in Family (FIF) Program, a program rooted in compassion, perseverance, and the enduring legacy of beloved McKinney High School educator Grace Rivera.
Originally established at McKinney High School, the First in Family program was created to recognize and support students navigating the unique challenges of becoming the first high school graduate in their family. Today, the program’s impact extends across all three MISD high schools, continuing to empower students through mentorship, resources, scholarships, and celebration.
A Teacher’s Legacy
Grace Rivera was more than a Spanish teacher at McKinney High School—she was a mentor, advocate, and source of inspiration for countless students, particularly Hispanic students and first-generation learners. As a first in family graduate herself, Rivera deeply understood both the struggles and triumphs associated with achieving this milestone.
Even while battling terminal cancer, Rivera remained committed to her students and envisioned a program that would recognize and support students walking a path similar to her own. Her dream was to ensure these students were not only celebrated for their perseverance, but also connected with resources and opportunities to help them succeed beyond high school. Rivera’s vision and inspiration were foundational to the program.
The First in Family initiative was also brought to life through the tireless efforts of longtime McKinney High School counselor Sandy Shelton. Shelton worked closely with these students and their families, using Rivera’s story as a source of motivation and encouragement. She served as a bridge between home and school, helping students see education as a pathway to opportunity and creating meaningful reasons for them to remain engaged in school.
Following Rivera’s passing, Shelton also helped rally support to raise scholarship funds in Rivera’s honor, ensuring her legacy would continue impacting future generations of students.
Today, Rivera’s family continues supporting the program’s scholarship fund, helping keep her vision alive for years to come.
Why First in Family Programs Matter
Students who are the first in their families to graduate from high school often face challenges their peers may not fully understand. Many navigate unfamiliar territory without relatives who can offer firsthand guidance on coursework, college preparation, financial aid, or post-secondary opportunities.
Some common challenges include:
Limited family experience with high school graduation requirements, college admissions, or financial aid processes.
Financial barriers that can make college or career training feel unattainable.
Balancing academics with family responsibilities and work obligations.
Navigating post-secondary planning without established support systems.
The First in Family program was designed to meet these needs through a combination of practical support, mentorship, recognition, and celebration.
Core Components of the Program
The First in Family program serves as a holistic support system for students and families through several key initiatives:
College and Career Counseling
Counselors provide individualized support to help students explore career pathways, establish goals, and prepare for life after graduation.
Collin College Field Trip
Students visit Collin College to experience life on a college campus—many for the very first time. The trip allows students to envision themselves pursuing higher education and future career opportunities.
Financial Aid Support
Program staff guide students and families through FAFSA and TASFA completion, helping remove barriers and ensuring students have access to financial aid opportunities.
First in Family Scholarship
Each year, a scholarship is awarded to a First in Family senior who demonstrates strong attendance, positive citizenship, teacher recommendations, and thoughtful educational and career goals expressed through an essay. Scholarship funds are made possible through the generosity of campus staff, community partners, PTO organizations, and supporters of the program.
Inspiring Teacher Recognition
Students select a teacher who made a meaningful impact on their educational journey. During the annual reception, both the student and the chosen teacher are honored together, highlighting the power of mentorship and supportive relationships in education.
Graduation Reception and White Cord Ceremony
Each spring, MISD hosts a special celebration recognizing First in Family students. During the event, scholarship recipients are announced and participating seniors receive a white graduation cord to wear proudly at commencement ceremonies.
The white cord symbolizes perseverance, courage, and determination—a visible reminder of the barriers these students have overcome and the future they are creating.
Identifying and Supporting Students
Students are identified through senior surveys and participation forms completed by families. Eligible students confirm they will be the first in their immediate family to graduate high school and are invited to participate in program activities and celebrations. Parents and guardians provide consent and are encouraged to actively participate throughout the process.
Family and Community Partnerships
Family involvement remains central to the success of the First in Family program. Parents and guardians are encouraged to:
Attend program events and celebrations.
Support scholarship applications.
Participate in financial aid completion efforts.
Partner with counselors on post-graduation planning.
Community organizations and local partners also play a critical role by sponsoring scholarships, mentoring students, and supporting recognition events.
A Celebration of Courage and Opportunity
For First in Family students, graduation represents more than earning a diploma. It signifies resilience, sacrifice, and the courage to pursue opportunities that may not have existed for previous generations.
Their achievements inspire younger siblings, uplift families, and strengthen the broader community.
Through the First in Family program, McKinney ISD continues to honor the vision of Grace Rivera, the dedication of Sandy Shelton, and the determination of students who are blazing new trails for themselves and future generations.
The white cord these graduates wear is more than a symbol of academic achievement—it is a promise that education has the power to transform lives, families, and communities for generations to come.
A special thank you to McKinney High School student photographer Cason Starnes for capturing the photos of First in Family for the McKinney ISD Public Relations and Communications department.