The McKinney ISD Leadership Academy class of 2025-2026 re-convened on Tuesday, November 11, for its second session of the school year as MISD continues in its mission to cultivate leadership from within the district.

Assistant Superintendent of Public Relations and Communications Dr. Shelly Spaulding and Scott Johnson Middle School Principal Holly Rogers led the group in its continued exploration of strength-based leadership, and Rogers facilitated a panel discussion on leadership that included SJMS Instructional Coach Nikki Jo, MISD Fine Arts Director Dr. Jared Critchfield, Vega Asst. Principal Wendy Cottam, ELS Secondary Coordinator Erica Ranel, Coordinator of Secondary Math Matt Corcoran and McKinney North Asst. Principal Clete Wilson.

Over the course of four sessions, the participants will complete certification in Jon Gordon's Power of Positive Leadership program and receive training in StrengthsFinder strength-based leadership. They'll hear from district and campus leaders through panels and presentations and participate in a resume workshop, interview training and more.

Thank you to our panel participants for your time and candid insight!
about 5 hours ago, McKinney ISD Communications
Jared Critchfield talking at the panel table while Wendy Cottam listens and laughs
female participant looking toward screen and smiling and pointing at it
Panel participant Nikki Jo answers a question
male participant standing and speaking
Dr. Shelly Spaulding smiles in the background as  participant speaks
female participant talking at table and gesturing
principal Holly Rogers talks to the group as she gestures toward overhead screen
wide view of the panel seated at table at front of the room
female particpant standing and talking to the group
female participant standing and talking
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week is Meika Kuns from McKinney Boyd High School.

See video: https://youtu.be/dWLAsjAo554

Meika is a 2-year member of the varsity Mixed Choir, Fusion and varsity Treble Choirs. She has received Superior Rating at Solo Contest twice, and she earned Top Region Choir Member twice. Meika was selected as the Outstanding Choir Member her Freshman & Junior year.

Meika currently maintains a 4.55 GPA, and she has taken 9 AP classes.
She is an AP Scholar with Honor, and she has earned Academic Excellence three times.

In her free time, Meika is a Contemporary Worship Service Leader at her church, and she has released originally-written, composed, and produced songs. Meika participated in the FIRST Lego League as Team Mentor, as well as the Robotics Competition and Tech Challenge at the largest FIRST organization in the world.

After graduation, Meika plans study Neuroscience at college and become a member of an A Cappella group.

That’s Meika Kuns, from McKinney Boyd High School, this week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week.
about 9 hours ago, Karla Schumacher
Picture of Meika Kuns from McKinney Boyd High School
Veterans Day at Cockrill Middle School

See video: https://youtu.be/7Eb_mcAIX3Q

Cockrill Middle School students and staff celebrated Veterans Day by hosting their special United States Armed Forces guests to a breakfast, band performance and a parade.
1 day ago, Karla Schumacher
Picture of Cockrill Middle School library and graphic "In Honor of Our Veterans"
Veterans Day at Wolford Elementary

In a special Veterans Day celebration at Wolford Elementary this morning, Principal Maria Hafner and the students and staff of Wolford rolled out the red carpet for family members who have served in our U.S. armed forces and to honor all who have served. Through song, images and heartfelt sentiment from student speakers and guest speaker Sgt. Douglas Chapman, USMC, (Ret.) Wolford poured out its love and respect for veterans.

The event served as a poignant reminder that our rights and freedoms as Americans have been defended and held secure by men and women that we often encounter every day—fathers and mothers and grandparents and aunts and uncles—seemingly ordinary people who have revealed themselves to be so much more through the sacrifices they’ve made to protect our liberty.

"It is important to me," said Sgt. Chapman of the celebration. "It's important to all of our other veterans, too, because we're the ones that have gone out and put our lives on the line for this. Many have given their lives. And, it's important that the kids understand that we're here for a reason."
1 day ago, McKinney ISD Communications
Sgt Douglas Chapman at podium speaking and wearing read uniform of the Marine Corps League
Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts presenting the colors
Wolford choir members singing
Veteran seated at table during reception in the library having a conversation
Veteran wearing Navy cap and jacket for the USS Roosevelt accepting a flower from a staff member
Veteran in US Air Force cap and jacket standing to be recognized
female student at the podium speaking
Veteran in camo jacket and Civil War era army hat smiling as a staff member pins a special Veterans Day pin on his lapel
Principal Maria Hafner at the podium welcoming everyone
Back of the jacket of a male Vietnam veteran with service patches on it
“I know it must have been tough, leaving your friends & family, but because of your service we get to live in a free country.” 5th Grader, Belamy Smith, expressed her gratitude for the members of the United States Armed Forces along with her fellow Gators as Frazier Elementary celebrated Veterans Day.

See video: https://youtu.be/ovlMSiGoImg

The Frazier choir and the McKinney North High School orchestra filled the gymnasium with patriotic music, and the hallways were decorated with artistic tributes from the students, as well as a “roll call” mural commemorating all of the veterans associated with Frazier Elementary.

From Frazier Principal Amy Holderman: “On behalf of all of our Gators, we want to give you an appreciation for your dedication and for your service. We would not be here today in our awesome school community if it wasn’t for you.”
1 day ago, Karla Schumacher
Picture of US Flag and graphic "Happy Veterans Day from Frazier Elementary"
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week is senior Caleb Austin from McKinney Boyd High School.

See video: https://youtu.be/pcWWuEtavC4

On the golf course, Caleb earned First Team All-District honors in 2024 and 2025, and he was the district runner-up in 2025.
Caleb is a 2-time regional qualifier with a personal best round of 68, and he has helped lead his team to a district championship.

Caleb has taken four AP classes, holds a 3.74 GPA, and he is a 3-time Academic All-District honoree.

Caleb participates in the PALS Mentorship program and the aviation program.
He volunteers through the Student Athletic Leadership Team, and he works as a golf caddy.

After graduation, Caleb plans to earn his commercial pilot’s license and fly for a major airline.

Congratulations to Caleb Austin from McKinney Boyd High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
2 days ago, Karla Schumacher
Picture of Caleb Austin from McKinney Boyd High School
McKinney ISD is pleased to announce that Michelle Sutton has been chosen as the district's Senior Director of Special Populations.

Sutton is a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist, celebrating her 25th year with McKinney ISD. She's a native of Texarkana, Texas, where she attended Pleasant Grove ISD before earning her bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and her master’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Her career began in Hillsborough County, near Tampa, Florida, where she worked for one year before returning home to Texas in 2001. Sutton joined McKinney ISD as a campus-based Speech-Language Pathologist, serving students at Walker Elementary and Scott Johnson Middle School. Since then, she has supported McNeil Elementary, Valley Creek Elementary and Evans Middle School.

At the district level, Sutton has contributed her expertise as a member of the Speech Evaluation Team and later as the Lead Speech-Language Pathologist. For the past two years, she has served as a Special Populations Coordinator, continuing her commitment to supporting students and educators across the district. Now, she takes on a broader leadership role.

"I am honored to assume the role of Senior Director of Special Populations for McKinney ISD," said Sutton. "I am grateful for the confidence placed in me and for the guidance and support of the mentors and colleagues who have shaped my journey. Our students remain at the center of all we do, and I look forward to continuing the collaborative work with staff and leadership to ensure each learner receives the support and opportunities they deserve. It is a privilege to serve this community, and I am committed to advancing excellence in special education across the district."

Outside of work, Sutton and her family make their home in McKinney. She is a proud parent of three children—Maddie and Caroline, both in 8th grade, and Jack, in 7th grade—all attending Cockrill Middle School.
5 days ago, McKinney ISD Communications
graphic with Sutton's head shot and quote from the post
Saturday, November 8, is National STEAM Day! Children benefit from strong science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics skills. That’s why STEAM programs are so important in McKinney ISD where every campus is STEAM focused with a dedicated STEAM ambassador teacher. STEAM subjects push students forward, opening doors to future careers and equipping them with the tools to tackle real-world challenges. Let’s use this day to spark curiosity and inspire a lifelong love of learning in every child!
5 days ago, McKinney ISD Communications
graphic that repeats the text from the post along with MISD logo and flag graphics

Today, we want to thank and celebrate our McKinney ISD coaches on Texas High School Coaches Day! This annual observance honors the unwavering dedication, leadership and service of high school and middle school coaches across the Lone Star State.

It's more than a symbolic gesture—it’s a heartfelt recognition of the vital role coaches play in shaping the lives of student-athletes. From the locker room to the classroom and beyond, coaches serve as mentors, motivators and role models, instilling values of discipline, teamwork and perseverance that last a lifetime.

5 days ago, Shane Mauldin
graphic with US and Texas flags and MISD logo and repeats the text from the post
Congratulations to Press Elementary 4th grader Kiaan Sinha, who has been selected for the National Math Stars Pathfinder Program, a 10-year national math enrichment pathway that supports students with exceptional mathematical potential. He has also received a partial scholarship to support his participation in the program.

The National Math Stars Pathfinder program nurtures long-term growth through advanced math, mentorship and collaboration with like-minded peers, helping students strengthen problem-solving skills and build confidence in STEM.

Congratulations, Kiaan!
6 days ago, McKinney ISD Communications
Kiaan sitting in chair with box on his lap and holding card that reads, "I'm a National Math Star!"
Superintendent Shawn Pratt's 2025–2026 Student Advisory Committee met for the second of four sessions on Wednesday, November 5, at the CEC! The group provides junior and senior student leaders from Boyd, MHS and North the opportunity to learn and grow in leadership and to give feedback about district and campus initiatives, events and procedures.

For this session, Dr. Shelly Spaulding led the council members in a discussion of the Choose McKinney ISD initiative, and the participants worked collaboratively to develop feedback from a student's perspective. In addition, they got an overview of the process of developing the district's academic calendar and the multitude of considerations and requirements involved in it. They offered candid and thoughtful insight on a variety of items such as school start dates, holidays and breaks and early release.

As always, the time was productive and the feedback appreciated!
7 days ago, McKinney ISD Communications
group of male and female students standing by poster board with one girl discussing the information on it
Shawn Pratt and Melanie Raleeh laughing with a student seated a table
female student with marker in hand looking at the camera as she works in a group
female student standing and smiling as she talks with another student
Shelly Spaulding talking in front of the group
female student pointing and smiling at another female student jokingly
two male students standing and playing rock paper scissors
male student seated and talking with people at his table
male student reacting with a smile as he loses in a game of rock paper scissors
Shawn Pratt standing and talking to two female students who are seated
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week is Avery Roy from McKinney High School.

See video: https://youtu.be/kVXHrYn0Imk

Avery is a 4-year member of the varsity Marquettes Dance & Drill Team, and she performs on the Elite, Kick Company and Hiphop Crew. She is a CPD Spirit Dance Contest Winner and a 2nd runner up at Nationals. She currently serves as Senior First Lieutenant, and she has served as Line Officer and Junior Lieutenant.

Avery currently maintains a 3.5 GPA, and she has earned green cords through volunteer hours.

In her free time, Avery works part-time at Clothes Mentor, and she is also a member of All-Star Dance at Dance Athletics.

After graduation, Avery plans to continue dancing and attend either Stephen F. Austin University or the University of Arkansas to major in Business & Marketing.

That’s Avery Roy, from McKinney High School, this week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week.
7 days ago, Karla Schumacher
Picture of Avery Roy from McKinney High School
National School Psychology Week celebrates the contributions of school psychologists and the important role they play in schools and communities. NSPW is an annual opportunity to recognize school psychologists' work to help children thrive in school, at home and in life. This year's theme, "Finding Your Path," reflects the ways that school psychologists help students, families and school communities set and achieve their goals.
9 days ago, McKinney ISD Communications
graphic with text from post and US flags and MISD logo
Established by Congress in 1990, National Native American Heritage Month is observed each November as a time to celebrate the traditions, languages and stories of Native American and Alaska Native communities and ensure their rich histories and contributions continue to thrive with each passing generation. It is an opportunity to learn more about the culture and heritage of these remarkable Americans who deeply enrich the quality and character of our Nation.
9 days ago, McKinney ISD Communications
shows the text from the post with two American flags and the MISD logo
November 3 is designated Father of Texas Day by the State of Texas to commemorate the birthday of Stephen F. Austin who played a crucial role in the colonization and establishment of Texas. Born in Virginia on November 3, 1793, Austin acquired large land grants in Texas in the early 1820's and brought thousands of settlers from the United States to establish permanent settlements. He played a foundational role in Texas' independence and became its first secretary of state in 1836. After his passing in December of the same year, Texas President Sam Houston called Austin the “Father of Texas."
9 days ago, McKinney ISD Communications
graphic with the text in the post and MISD logo and US and Texas Flags
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week is McKinney North senior, Ellery Langsdale.

See video: https://youtu.be/jIuBTSC5NL0

On the court, Ellery helped lead the Bulldogs to a 2024 Class 5A Division 1 State Runner-Up finish, and she earned Academic All-District honors in volleyball.

Off the court, Ellery shines just as bright. She is a National Honor Society member, taking six AP classes, and carrying an incredible 4.56 GPA, ranking her in the top 25 of her class.

Ellery gives back to campus and her community as a PALS mentor and a member of her church youth group.

After graduation, Ellery plans to attend a four-year university and major in healthcare.

Congratulations to Ellery Langsdale from McKinney North High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
9 days ago, Karla Schumacher
Picture of Ellery Langsdale from McKinney North High School
McKinney ISD's Daddy Daughter Dance

Saturday, November 8, 2025
McKinney Boyd High School
600 N. Lake Forest Drive
McKinney, TX 75071
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Kinder through 5th grades only

Tickets: $25 per person
Corsages: $10 each
Boutonnieres: $10 each
Tickets go on sale October 1, 2025

Link to purchase tickets: https://mckinneyisd.reg.eleyo.com/
12 days ago, McKinney ISD Communications
decorative graphic that repeats info in the post
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week is Allie Critchfield from McKinney North High School.

See video: https://youtu.be/FrX7EFKgCnc

Allie serves as First Lieutenant of the NorthStar Varsity Drill Team, and she is a 4-year member of the Elite Team. She is a 2-time Diamond Award-winner at Crowd Pleasers Officer Camp, and she was voted “Most Friendly” and “Best Technique” for the NorthStars.

Allie currently maintains a 3.7 GPA with AP and Dual Credit classes, and she participates in the PALS Mentorship program.

In her free time, Allie works as a certified swim instructor and as a crew member at Pickleman’s Gourmet Café. She volunteers with several organizations including Streetside Showers, McKinney Food Pantry, Samaritan Inn, and Special Olympics.

Allie is on track for LDS Seminary graduation with four years of daily scripture study classes, and she is currently serving as president of the Young Women’s youth group at church.

After graduation, Allie plans to attend Brigham Young University to major in Biology and pursue a career as a medical sonographer.

That’s Allie Critchfield, from McKinney North High School, this week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week.
14 days ago, Karla Schumacher
Picture of Allie Critchfield from McKinney North High School
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week is Edgar Corralejo from McKinney Boyd High School.

See video: https://youtu.be/skuRJ7MK-tw

Edgar is a senior, and he serves as a captain for the Bronco Football Team.
He was selected 3rd Team All-District, and he received the Offensive Hammer Award for the Broncos.

Edgar has taken 4 AP classes, and he currently has a GPA of 3.5.
He has achieved the Academic Excellence award for the past two years.

Edgar participates in the PALS Mentorship program as well as the Student Athlete Leadership Team, and he works at Hideaway Pizza.

Edgar plans on going to college and playing football, and he hopes to help support his family in the future.

That’s Edgar Corralejo from McKinney Boyd High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
17 days ago, Karla Schumacher
Picture of Edgar Corralejo from McKinney Boyd High School
McKinney High School Director of Bands Brandon Fisher earned a Standing Ovation spotlight recognition from the Common Time Podcast, hosted by Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer.

"[This is] a new segment of the show where we shine a spotlight on one of our incredible colleagues that is truly making a difference in the field," said Pasquale.

"This week, we are recognizing Brandon Fisher from McKinney High School," said Clemmer as he read the nominating remarks. "'Brandon Fisher is quickly and quietly building one of the most incredible 6A band cultures out there today. Brandon and his team of assistants are an absolute dream team. They set the example of servant leadership and embody the phrase, 'How you do anything is how you do everything, day in and day out.' The students have embraced the director's message and are fully bought in, approaching all the little things with great care ... Kudos to team McKinney!'"

Brandon Fisher is in his fourth year at McKinney High School, where he serves as Director of Bands. During his time at MHS, he has led the Royal Pride Band to consistent Superior Ratings at UIL events and helped reestablish the jazz band program.

Before McKinney, Fisher spent four years as Director of Bands at Scott Middle School in Denison, where the program doubled in size and earned top ratings. He began his teaching career at B. McDaniel Intermediate School.

A graduate of Texas A&M University-Commerce (B.S. in Music Education) and the University of North Texas (M.Ed. in Educational Leadership), Fisher was named Denison ISD Rookie Teacher of the Year in 2015.

He is a member of TMEA, TBA, TEA, and Kappa Kappa Psi, and is a proud Eagle Scout. Fisher is passionate about building a band program that honors the past, embraces the present and inspires the future.
20 days ago, McKinney ISD Communications
Graphic that reads, "Teacher Spotlight: Brandon Fisher, Common Time Podcast Standing Ovation Spotlight. Director of Bands, McKinney High School