In McKinney ISD, these experts help identify students' unique learning needs, support teachers and families and ensure every learner has the tools to succeed. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our students!
Public schools are where the future begins and community thrives. March 2-6 is Texas Public Schools Week, and we’re proud to celebrate the incredible students, educators, families and community members who make McKinney ISD such a special place.
From innovative classrooms and fine arts to athletics, CTE programs and hands-on learning, our students are discovering their passions and preparing for the future.
Thank you to everyone who supports public education and helps us create opportunities for every student, every day. Join us in celebrating Texas public schools!
Cross-Curricular Connection!
Science and literature intersected in a water filtration lab for McKinney ISD sixth graders during a unit exploring natural resources and the plight of the millions worldwide who lack access to clean drinking water. Through the novel "A Long Walk to Water" by Linda Sue Park, our students encountered the true story of Salva Dut, a "Lost Boy" refugee of Sudan's Second Civil War, and his work to bring safe drinking water to the people of Sudan. In science class, students learned about water filtration methods and explored solutions to implement a simple, low-cost filtration system for communities without access to water treatment facilities. Literature put a face on a real-world crisis; science put problem solving creativity in the hands of our students.
Here are some photos from Evans Middle School and Faubion Middle School...
March 2 is Read Across America Day, a day to celebrate one of our favorite activities! The day was established in 1998 to help get kids excited about reading. Observed each year on the birthday of beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss, National Read Across America Day is a great opportunity for students, teachers, parents and community members around the nation to come together to read books and celebrate the joy of reading!
March is designated as Texas History Month, a time to reflect on and honor the rich heritage, diverse culture and defining events that have shaped our great state. From the courage displayed at the Alamo to the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence, Texas history is marked by resilience, determination and a steadfast commitment to liberty.
We are grateful for the leaders, pioneers, educators, service members and everyday citizens whose contributions have left a lasting impact on our communities and our state. Their legacy continues to inspire future generations of Texans.
See video: https://youtu.be/rwU--TM-JJE
Kammie is a four-year varsity player on the soccer team, and she has served as team captain for the past 2 years. In 2024 Kammie earned 2nd Team All-District honors, and she was selected 1st Team All-District in 2025. She was named Defensive Player of the Year for McKinney High School.
Kammie is ranked number one in her class! She has taken 17 AP classes, and she is a three-time AP Scholar.
Kammie serves as president of the National Honor Society and Girls in STEM/Girls Who Code. She is also a member of the Engineering Club and Team Fashion Engineering.
Outside of school, Kammie plays USYS Top Soccer, and she volunteers by assisting students with disabilities and autism in playing soccer. She helped start and operate a retail beef business, and she participates in Young Life.
After graduation, Kammie plans to attend the University of Wyoming to play soccer and continue her education.
That’s Kammie Kristufek from McKinney High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
House Bill 3435 of the 86th Texas Legislature designated March 1 as Texas Girls in STEM Day to celebrate and promote girls' participation in fields related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This special day gives girls across the state a focused opportunity to learn, ask questions and explore more closely subject areas they may not have previously considered.
Let’s continue to encourage, support and invest in the next generation of engineers, scientists, doctors, programmers and innovators!
Program Spotlight: Aviation, Law and Public Service, JROTC
The MISD Aviation program offers students hands-on opportunities in aerospace technologies. Students can earn drone certification, gain piloting experience through flight simulators, and learn about a variety of career opportunities in aviation. A major strength of the program is the partnership with the Eagles Nest mentors.
The MISD Law and Public Service program is a perfect fit for students who have a passion for helping others through a role in public service. This program covers legal concepts, constitutional law, investigations, and basic police procedures. Students can earn the Emergency Telecommunicator certification and gain additional experience through community partnerships.
The MISD JROTC program has been nationally recognized for student success and performance. The program focuses on personal responsibility, physical fitness, and community service without a mandatory military commitment. The JROTC program is only offered at McKinney High School; students interested in JROTC will need to request a programmatic transfer to MHS.
Built by the Community: The McKinney ISD Strategic Plan
For the past two years, McKinney ISD has been driven by a community-led strategic plan, a roadmap built by over 190 stakeholders, including parents, teachers, students, and local partners. What started as a visioning session in 2023 has evolved into the heartbeat of our daily operations.
McKinney ISD Strategic Plan Pillars:
-Safety & Well-Being
-Teaching & Learning
-High Quality Staff
-MISD Family & Culture
-Communications
-Finance & Facilities
Under the leadership of Superintendent Shawn Pratt and our Board of Trustees, this plan isn't just a document on a shelf; it’s a living commitment. This past January, our strategic planning committee reconvened to report on the action plans currently driving growth across every campus.
For more information about the McKinney ISD Strategic Plan, please visit the McKinney ISD website: https://www.mckinneyisd.net/page/vision-mission-beliefs/
February Community Connection
The shortest month of the year was packed with some of our biggest milestones. From celebrating student achievement to looking ahead to the new school year, here is what’s happening in McKinney ISD: February Community Connection Newsletter
See video: https://tinyurl.com/4b5s7j7e
Madelyn is a Superior & Exemplary Medalist in UIL Solo and Ensemble Contests. She serves as vice president for the orchestra, and she performs in the musical pit orchestra.
Madelyn maintains a 4.62 GPA with 9 AP credits, and she is a member of the National Honor Society. She has completed the Athletic & Rehab Medicine Clinical Class as well as the NASM – Personal Trainer Certification Course. Madelyn enjoys competing in HOSA, and she is a member of the Science Club and the Asian Student Union.
In her free time, Madelyn works at a boba shop.
After graduation, Madelyn plans to attend the University of Dallas to major in Biomedical Sciences.
That’s Madelyn Kwan, from McKinney Boyd High School, this week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week.
Representative Leadership & Community Voice: McKinney ISD Board of Trustees
The McKinney ISD Board of Trustees is a dedicated group of seven community members elected to serve four-year terms. These trustees volunteer their time without compensation, working together to represent the entire district and ensure our students receive the highest quality education possible.
The Board serves as the governing body for the district, operating under state and federal laws to manage the following:
Policy & Growth: Setting district-wide priorities, policies, and managing long-term growth.
Personnel & Curriculum: Making final decisions on staffing and textbook selections.
Fiscal Oversight: Adopting the annual operating budget and levying taxes to fund our schools.
Future Planning: Determining and submitting bond issues to voters for necessary construction and facility improvements.
For more information about the McKinney ISD Board of Trustees, please visit: https://www.mckinneyisd.net/page/board-of-trustees
See video: https://youtu.be/RC-fX-Wg-14
Sara is a senior soccer player for the Lady Bulldogs. She plays midfield, and she has had an outstanding career, earning Player of the Year and First Team All-District in 2025. She was also selected as Defensive Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player in 2024.
In the classroom, Sara takes AP World History, AP Language, and AP Calculus, and she currently maintains a 3.8 GPA. She has earned Academic All-District.
Sara is a member PALS and Student Council, and she participates in Spanish Club and youth group. She also works as a childcare assistant for local churches, and she volunteers with Special Olympics.
After graduation, Sara plans to study Business Finance at the University of Arkansas.
Congratulations to Sara Bell from McKinney North High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
Students who enjoy problem solving and testing their project designs may also be interested in the MISD Computer Science program. Students have the opportunity to learn a variety of computer languages and skills through the series of courses offered in MISD. Additionally, students in both Engineering and Computer Science can expand on their interests through competitions with the Technology Student Association (TSA).
The MISD Business, Marketing and Finance program is a great pathway for any student to learn real-world applications and skills through hands-on experience in entrepreneurship, marketing, business management, and finance. These courses foster critical thinking, leadership, and professional communication skills while allowing students to explore a variety of career pathways.
Courses in Engineering, Computer Science, and Business are offered at all three MISD high school campuses.
Public schools play an essential role in strengthening communities, expanding opportunity, and preparing every learner to thrive. Throughout the week, we’ll spotlight the people, partnerships, and practices that help public schools meet today’s challenges while preparing kids for their best future.
See video: https://youtu.be/vZHO6fzusME
Ethan is a 4-year member of the Broadway Broncos Theatre. He has earned several Texas Thespian Awards, including a perfect score for a duet musical at the State Festival and a Nationals nomination for the role of “Burr” from The Wild Party.
At UIL One-Act Play, Ethan received the Outstanding Performer award for his role as “Bryce” in Edward Tulane and an award for All-Star Cast Member for his performance as “Pa” in The Storm In The Barn. Through Broadway Dallas, he earned a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Performer for his role as “Karl the Giant” in Big Fish. Ethan plays several instruments, and he composed violin & guitar music for 2 UIL plays.
Ethan has a 4.5 GPA, and he has completed 5 AP classes and 2 dual credit courses. He is a First Generation and Hispanic National Scholar.
In his free time, Ethan volunteers within the community and works as a balloon twister for children’s parties and events.
After graduation, Ethan plans to double major in Theatre and Psychology with the goal of becoming a therapist. Ethan has received 21 callbacks after auditioning for college for theatre programs at the International Thespian Festival, and he is currently working through the decision-making process.
That’s Ethan Larriva from McKinney Boyd High School this week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week.
The McKinney ISD Tour is quickly approaching! Be sure to sign up soon!
This unique event is your chance to:
—Learn more about McKinney ISD and the exciting things happening in our schools.
—Experience McKinney ISD in action during a guided walking tour of McKinney Boyd High School and Minshew Elementary.
—Connect with fellow community members over a complimentary lunch.
Whether you’re a McKinney resident, realtor or senior adult, this free event offers a first-hand look at the people, programs and places that make McKinney ISD a destination district.
Details:
March 6, 2026
8:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.
Registration is required.
Find more information and registration here:
https://www.mckinneyisd.net/page/mckinney-isd-tour
See video: https://youtu.be/_V8ZuS8PerY
Isabella is an artist in AP Studio Art, and she is a 3-year medalist at the Regional Visual Arts Scholastic Event, as well as a State Medal winner at VASE.
Isabella is also a 4-year member of the Varsity Marquettes, participating on the Elite Team and HipHop Crew. She earned the Servant Heart, Top 5 Rookie and Top 5 Veteran Awards.
Isabella currently has a 3.8 GPA with 3 AP credits and Dual Credits. She is a 3-year Academic Achievement Award recipient, and she scored 5 on her AP Studio Art Drawing Portfolio.
In her free time, Isabella takes studio dance classes, and she volunteers in technique training for elementary and middle school students.
She is a member of the Spanish Club, and her artwork has been showcased at The Cove.
After graduation, Isabella plans to study business and project management at Texas A&M University.
That’s Isabella Porter from McKinney High School this week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week.
Join our Team!
McKinney ISD will host a Job Fair for the 2026-2027 school year on Saturday, February 28!
The district is seeking:
Special Education Teachers
Various Districtwide Positions
McKinney ISD is now hiring great people for special education teacher positions and other districtwide employees for the 2026–2027 school year. Join the McKinney ISD team! Use the QR code on the flyer or click here to register.
$63,500 Starting Salary for First Year Teachers!
Stipends:
SPED – $5,000
Bilingual – $3,000
Master's – $1,500
Date:
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time:
9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Location:
Scott Johnson Middle School
3400 Community Ave
McKinney, TX 75071
