Hello, my name is Kenneth Ussery, and I serve as a McKinney ISD School Board Trustee. Each month, after our Board meeting, we provide our community with a brief summary of events and items covered during the meeting.
See video: https://youtu.be/4jQAjWTcNSk
The meeting was called to order with the announcement of a quorum and was followed by an invocation led by me.
McKinney ISD student Jacob Castillo, a member of Boy Scout Troop 296, led the Pledges of Allegiance.
Then we jumped right into celebrations and recognitions!
The Board honored students and staff for their notable accomplishments, including: the We Are McKinney Superintendent awards. Congratulations to Summer Lindsay from Lawson Early Childhood Center, Gerrit Huston from Cockrill Middle School & Roxxy Griffin from Valley Creek Elementary.
We honored the Every Student, Every Day awards-winner. Congratulations to Mikenna Hanley from Scott Johnson Middle School and Dana Adame from Press Elementary.
We recognized the National Math Stars honoree, Adam Abutair from Wilmeth Elementary.
We recognized the McKinney ISD Lives Kind award recipient, the campus of Glen Oaks Elementary.
We congratulated Trustee Harvey Oaxaca, who received the designation of Master Trustee after completing the Texas Association of School Boards Leadership Graduation program.
We also honored Yary Lira from McKinney High School. She received the Journalism Educators Association Rising Star award.
We proudly acknowledged International Thespian Festival THESPY Award Winner, Jayden Mays from McKinney Boyd High School.
We celebrated Faubion Middle School Orchestra, as they have been named a Texas Music Educators Association Honor Orchestra State Finalist.
And last but not least, we recognized Faubion Middle School Band as a Texas Music Educators Association Honor Band State Finalist.
Next public comment was given on agenda and non-agenda items, and then the Board entered into closed session.
Following reconvening, the trustees received information from several presentations.
Dr. Javetta Jones-Roberson, Coordinator of Advanced Academics and Collegiate Partnerships, presented on the McKinney ISD Collegiate Academy, opening in the 26-27 school year.
Dr. Amber Epperson, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, provided an update on the McKinney ISD Strategic Plan
Pillar 2 — Teaching and Learning.
Marlene Harbeson, Chief Financial Officer, presented the 2025–2026 budget update.
Next the Board approved all items on the consent agenda, which included:
• Meeting minutes from August 18, 2025, and September 10, 2025
• Financial reports and budget amendments
• Resolutions of support for the McKinney Education Foundation and Dream Builders
• Contracts related to maintenance, fine arts, and athletics equipment
• Approval of the 2025–2026 T-TESS Appraisers
• Board policy revision DC (LOCAL),
• Certification of compliance with Senate Bill 12
• Engineering services for HVAC, electrical, and fire alarm systems at Bennett Elementary
• and public information request regarding the 2025 District Calendar.
Additionally, the Board approved a resolution establishing an Educational Facilities Alignment Committee as presented by Dr. Dennis Womack, Assistant Superintendent of Business Operations.
The committee will be charged with:
• representing the needs of all stakeholders
• listening to questions and comments from the community
• using data and facts to make informed decisions
• identifying three elementary schools to repurpose
• and recommend attendance zones and an attendance map to the Board
Trustees also reviewed monthly written reports, including donations under $5,000, bond, energy, construction, transportation, and human resources updates.
Upcoming district events, including the McKinney ISD Band Night on September 24th at 7:00 PM at McKinney ISD Stadium and the next regular Board Meeting scheduled for October 20th at 6:00 PM at the Community Event Center.
The meeting was adjourned following these items of business.
Those are the highlights from this month’s meeting. Thank you for your interest in McKinney ISD and the great work that is happening within our district!
See video: https://youtu.be/4jQAjWTcNSk
The meeting was called to order with the announcement of a quorum and was followed by an invocation led by me.
McKinney ISD student Jacob Castillo, a member of Boy Scout Troop 296, led the Pledges of Allegiance.
Then we jumped right into celebrations and recognitions!
The Board honored students and staff for their notable accomplishments, including: the We Are McKinney Superintendent awards. Congratulations to Summer Lindsay from Lawson Early Childhood Center, Gerrit Huston from Cockrill Middle School & Roxxy Griffin from Valley Creek Elementary.
We honored the Every Student, Every Day awards-winner. Congratulations to Mikenna Hanley from Scott Johnson Middle School and Dana Adame from Press Elementary.
We recognized the National Math Stars honoree, Adam Abutair from Wilmeth Elementary.
We recognized the McKinney ISD Lives Kind award recipient, the campus of Glen Oaks Elementary.
We congratulated Trustee Harvey Oaxaca, who received the designation of Master Trustee after completing the Texas Association of School Boards Leadership Graduation program.
We also honored Yary Lira from McKinney High School. She received the Journalism Educators Association Rising Star award.
We proudly acknowledged International Thespian Festival THESPY Award Winner, Jayden Mays from McKinney Boyd High School.
We celebrated Faubion Middle School Orchestra, as they have been named a Texas Music Educators Association Honor Orchestra State Finalist.
And last but not least, we recognized Faubion Middle School Band as a Texas Music Educators Association Honor Band State Finalist.
Next public comment was given on agenda and non-agenda items, and then the Board entered into closed session.
Following reconvening, the trustees received information from several presentations.
Dr. Javetta Jones-Roberson, Coordinator of Advanced Academics and Collegiate Partnerships, presented on the McKinney ISD Collegiate Academy, opening in the 26-27 school year.
Dr. Amber Epperson, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, provided an update on the McKinney ISD Strategic Plan
Pillar 2 — Teaching and Learning.
Marlene Harbeson, Chief Financial Officer, presented the 2025–2026 budget update.
Next the Board approved all items on the consent agenda, which included:
• Meeting minutes from August 18, 2025, and September 10, 2025
• Financial reports and budget amendments
• Resolutions of support for the McKinney Education Foundation and Dream Builders
• Contracts related to maintenance, fine arts, and athletics equipment
• Approval of the 2025–2026 T-TESS Appraisers
• Board policy revision DC (LOCAL),
• Certification of compliance with Senate Bill 12
• Engineering services for HVAC, electrical, and fire alarm systems at Bennett Elementary
• and public information request regarding the 2025 District Calendar.
Additionally, the Board approved a resolution establishing an Educational Facilities Alignment Committee as presented by Dr. Dennis Womack, Assistant Superintendent of Business Operations.
The committee will be charged with:
• representing the needs of all stakeholders
• listening to questions and comments from the community
• using data and facts to make informed decisions
• identifying three elementary schools to repurpose
• and recommend attendance zones and an attendance map to the Board
Trustees also reviewed monthly written reports, including donations under $5,000, bond, energy, construction, transportation, and human resources updates.
Upcoming district events, including the McKinney ISD Band Night on September 24th at 7:00 PM at McKinney ISD Stadium and the next regular Board Meeting scheduled for October 20th at 6:00 PM at the Community Event Center.
The meeting was adjourned following these items of business.
Those are the highlights from this month’s meeting. Thank you for your interest in McKinney ISD and the great work that is happening within our district!
September 16, 2025, is National Information Technology Professionals Day! The information technology (IT) professional is the unsung hero of the modern office. These behind the scenes experts tackle the obstacles that leave the rest of us scratching our heads. Whether it be desktops, laptops, mobile devices, applications, servers, networks, databases or cybersecurity, IT professionals keep
McKinney ISD going.
McKinney ISD going.
September 15–19: College Week & Generation Texas Week
College Week kicks off with College Night at McKinney High School on Sept. 15, from 6–8 p.m., featuring more than 100 universities and colleges. College Week highlights the importance of higher education and supporting students in planning for college. It is a time to learn about admissions, financial aid, and the many opportunities that come with a college degree.
Generation Texas Week celebrates the importance of education and career readiness in Texas. It encourages students to explore college and career pathways, helping them take the next step toward a bright future.
College Week kicks off with College Night at McKinney High School on Sept. 15, from 6–8 p.m., featuring more than 100 universities and colleges. College Week highlights the importance of higher education and supporting students in planning for college. It is a time to learn about admissions, financial aid, and the many opportunities that come with a college degree.
Generation Texas Week celebrates the importance of education and career readiness in Texas. It encourages students to explore college and career pathways, helping them take the next step toward a bright future.
National Hispanic Heritage Month—celebrated September 15 – October 19—is a time to celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. From art and music to science, public service, and beyond, their impact is woven into the fabric of our nation. Let’s honor the voices, stories, and traditions that continue to inspire and shape our future.
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week is senior Georgia Burke from McKinney Boyd High School.
See video: https://youtu.be/5jQoHRHdaF4
Georgia serves as team captain for the Lady Broncos cross country team. She received the Freshman of the Year award, and as a junior she was selected as the Most Improved Runner.
Georgia currently maintains a 4.1 GPA, and she is enrolled in several AP classes. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the student athletic leadership team, and she participates in the PALS Mentorship program.
Next year Georgia plans to attend Texas A&M to study
psychology to become a child therapist.
That’s Georgia Burke from McKinney Boyd High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
See video: https://youtu.be/5jQoHRHdaF4
Georgia serves as team captain for the Lady Broncos cross country team. She received the Freshman of the Year award, and as a junior she was selected as the Most Improved Runner.
Georgia currently maintains a 4.1 GPA, and she is enrolled in several AP classes. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the student athletic leadership team, and she participates in the PALS Mentorship program.
Next year Georgia plans to attend Texas A&M to study
psychology to become a child therapist.
That’s Georgia Burke from McKinney Boyd High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
Cockrill Middle School held its annual Patriot Day parade yesterday in honor of McKinney's first responders and to honor the memory of all those lost during the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. They invited officers from the McKinney Police Department and firefighters from the McKinney Fire Department to take part in the parade. Cockrill students filled the hallways to show their appreciation for the men and women who keep our community safe!
Thursday, September 11, is Texas First Responders Day and 9/11 Commemoration Day...
Texas First Responders Day, observed on September 11, honors the bravery and dedication of first responders across the state. It recognizes the vital role of firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and other emergency personnel who risk their lives to protect and serve their communities every day.
9/11 Commemoration Day honors the lives lost and the heroes who emerged during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. It is a solemn day of remembrance marked by ceremonies, moments of silence, and reflections on unity, resilience, and sacrifice.
Texas First Responders Day, observed on September 11, honors the bravery and dedication of first responders across the state. It recognizes the vital role of firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and other emergency personnel who risk their lives to protect and serve their communities every day.
9/11 Commemoration Day honors the lives lost and the heroes who emerged during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. It is a solemn day of remembrance marked by ceremonies, moments of silence, and reflections on unity, resilience, and sacrifice.
2025-2026 McKinney ISD Leadership Academy!
The McKinney ISD Leadership Academy class of 2025–2026 got underway yesterday afternoon as MISD continues its mission to cultivate leadership from within the district. The academy was launched six years ago to identify, recruit and equip educators with a variety of levels of specializations and broad knowledge, skills and experiences that prepare them for potential leadership positions in both school and district leadership.
MISD Superintendent Shawn Pratt helped kick off this year’s academy in the Central Office boardroom as he welcomed the new participants and spoke on fundamental principles of leadership. The group will gather for four sessions throughout the school year, and participants will complete the academy with certification in Jon Gordon's Power of Positive Leadership program. They will also receive training in StrengthsFinder strength-based leadership, hear from both district and campus leaders through panels and presentations, participate in a resume workshop and interview training and more.
The McKinney ISD Leadership Academy class of 2025–2026 got underway yesterday afternoon as MISD continues its mission to cultivate leadership from within the district. The academy was launched six years ago to identify, recruit and equip educators with a variety of levels of specializations and broad knowledge, skills and experiences that prepare them for potential leadership positions in both school and district leadership.
MISD Superintendent Shawn Pratt helped kick off this year’s academy in the Central Office boardroom as he welcomed the new participants and spoke on fundamental principles of leadership. The group will gather for four sessions throughout the school year, and participants will complete the academy with certification in Jon Gordon's Power of Positive Leadership program. They will also receive training in StrengthsFinder strength-based leadership, hear from both district and campus leaders through panels and presentations, participate in a resume workshop and interview training and more.
Pigs, goats, cows and bunnies! How do you own and take care of them?
McKinney ISD FFA will teach you how to raise and show livestock, and their annual Back to Barn Bash provides an opportunity for students and parents to learn more.
See video: https://youtu.be/7trv_2BR3Cc
McKinney ISD FFA will teach you how to raise and show livestock, and their annual Back to Barn Bash provides an opportunity for students and parents to learn more.
See video: https://youtu.be/7trv_2BR3Cc
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week is Irelyn Horton from McKinney Boyd High School.
See video: https://youtu.be/yapUorvi4n0
Irelyn is a 4-year member of the varsity Bailadoras Dance Team, and a 3-year member of the Bailadoras Elite Team. She was a member of the National Champion Team in 2023 & 2025 and the National Champion Social Officers in 2025. Irelyn was selected as the Spirit Girl of the Week twice, and she was named Outstanding Sophomore. Irelyn currently serves as Senior Lieutenant, and she has served as Social Officer and Line Officer.
Irelyn has taken 4 AP classes, and she earned her Green Cord and Academic Excellence Award.
In her free time, Irelyn is a 15-year student at Pure Movement Dance, and a 13-year member of the Girl Scouts where she has earned the Bronze & Silver Award. She is a member of the Tejas Riders, and she volunteers at St. Judes.
Irelyn is a TVCC Cardette Fast Pass Recipient, and after graduation, she plans to attend Trinity Valley Community College & perform on the Cardettes dance team.
That’s Irelyn Horton from McKinney Boyd High School, this week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week.
See video: https://youtu.be/yapUorvi4n0
Irelyn is a 4-year member of the varsity Bailadoras Dance Team, and a 3-year member of the Bailadoras Elite Team. She was a member of the National Champion Team in 2023 & 2025 and the National Champion Social Officers in 2025. Irelyn was selected as the Spirit Girl of the Week twice, and she was named Outstanding Sophomore. Irelyn currently serves as Senior Lieutenant, and she has served as Social Officer and Line Officer.
Irelyn has taken 4 AP classes, and she earned her Green Cord and Academic Excellence Award.
In her free time, Irelyn is a 15-year student at Pure Movement Dance, and a 13-year member of the Girl Scouts where she has earned the Bronze & Silver Award. She is a member of the Tejas Riders, and she volunteers at St. Judes.
Irelyn is a TVCC Cardette Fast Pass Recipient, and after graduation, she plans to attend Trinity Valley Community College & perform on the Cardettes dance team.
That’s Irelyn Horton from McKinney Boyd High School, this week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week.
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week is senior Danny Forrester from McKinney North High School.
See video: https://youtu.be/_P31_NGr5z8
Danny is a 3-year varsity letterman, and he serves as a captain for the Bulldawg football team. In 2024 Danny was named to the All-District 5A team.
Danny has taken several AP classes, and he currently has GPA of 3.7. He was awarded Academic All-District 3 times.
Danny participates in the PALS Mentorship program at McKinney North.
Next year Danny plans on pursuing a Business and Finance degree.
That’s Danny Forrester from McKinney North High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
See video: https://youtu.be/_P31_NGr5z8
Danny is a 3-year varsity letterman, and he serves as a captain for the Bulldawg football team. In 2024 Danny was named to the All-District 5A team.
Danny has taken several AP classes, and he currently has GPA of 3.7. He was awarded Academic All-District 3 times.
Danny participates in the PALS Mentorship program at McKinney North.
Next year Danny plans on pursuing a Business and Finance degree.
That’s Danny Forrester from McKinney North High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
Happy National Grandparents Day!
National Grandparents Day is a special occasion celebrated to honor and appreciate the love, wisdom, and guidance of grandparents. Observed in many countries, including the United States, on the first Sunday after Labor Day, the day recognizes the vital role grandparents play in families and society. It's a time for grandchildren to express their gratitude through visits, cards, and thoughtful gestures, strengthening the bond between generations and preserving family traditions.
National Grandparents Day is a special occasion celebrated to honor and appreciate the love, wisdom, and guidance of grandparents. Observed in many countries, including the United States, on the first Sunday after Labor Day, the day recognizes the vital role grandparents play in families and society. It's a time for grandchildren to express their gratitude through visits, cards, and thoughtful gestures, strengthening the bond between generations and preserving family traditions.
With National Grandparents Day coming up on Sunday, Eddins Elementary celebrated by inviting grandparents to lunch today! Grandparents Day was established to celebrate the love, wisdom and guidance of grandparents; the special bond they have with grandchildren; and the important role that they play in our families!
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week is senior Gabby Sanchez from McKinney High School.
Video: https://youtu.be/DGxJffaPN54
Gabby is a 4-year member of the varsity Marquettes Dance & Drill Team, and she performs with the Elite, Kick Company and Hiphop Crew.
She is a 4-time runner up in several solo competitions, and she was selected as a solo champion her sophomore year.
Gabby is currently Senior Captain, and she has served as Lieutenant for 2 years.
Gabby currently has a 3.93 GPA, and she is a 2-year member of the National Honor Society.
She has earned 3 green cords through her volunteer hours and 3 Academic Excellence cords.
In her free time, Gabby works part-time at Play Street Museum in Allen as a birthday party host. She also is a member of several Dance World teams at Dance Athletics.
After graduation, Gabby plans to continue dancing and attend either the University of Arkansas or Ole Miss to study Elementary Education
That’s Gabby Sanchez, from McKinney High School, this week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week.
Video: https://youtu.be/DGxJffaPN54
Gabby is a 4-year member of the varsity Marquettes Dance & Drill Team, and she performs with the Elite, Kick Company and Hiphop Crew.
She is a 4-time runner up in several solo competitions, and she was selected as a solo champion her sophomore year.
Gabby is currently Senior Captain, and she has served as Lieutenant for 2 years.
Gabby currently has a 3.93 GPA, and she is a 2-year member of the National Honor Society.
She has earned 3 green cords through her volunteer hours and 3 Academic Excellence cords.
In her free time, Gabby works part-time at Play Street Museum in Allen as a birthday party host. She also is a member of several Dance World teams at Dance Athletics.
After graduation, Gabby plans to continue dancing and attend either the University of Arkansas or Ole Miss to study Elementary Education
That’s Gabby Sanchez, from McKinney High School, this week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Artist of the Week.
Be a Game-Changing Volunteer at the 11th Annual McKinney ISM Business Symposium!
Calling all passionate business professionals and Community members!
The McKinney ISD Interdisciplinary Studies and Mentorship Program (ISM) is hosting its 11th Annual Business Symposium, and we need YOU to make it a success as a volunteer.
This is your chance to directly impact the future of our community by helping our MISD high school students hone their interview skills and build confidence as they prepare for their careers.
Here's why you should volunteer:
-Shape the Next Generation of Leaders: Guide students through mock interviews, providing valuable feedback that will polish their skills and strategies.
-Invest in Your Community: Network with future business leaders and inspire them while sharing your expertise.
-Make a Lasting Impact: Your insights and encouragement will shape their confidence and set them on the path to success.
Join us on Friday, September 26th, from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM at the Collin College Conference Center in McKinney, Texas.
Ready to Be a Volunteer? Click here and sign up today: https://tinyurl.com/44ps6wrv
Space is limited, so don't miss out!
We look forward to partnering with you to make this a truly inspiring event for the students.
Calling all passionate business professionals and Community members!
The McKinney ISD Interdisciplinary Studies and Mentorship Program (ISM) is hosting its 11th Annual Business Symposium, and we need YOU to make it a success as a volunteer.
This is your chance to directly impact the future of our community by helping our MISD high school students hone their interview skills and build confidence as they prepare for their careers.
Here's why you should volunteer:
-Shape the Next Generation of Leaders: Guide students through mock interviews, providing valuable feedback that will polish their skills and strategies.
-Invest in Your Community: Network with future business leaders and inspire them while sharing your expertise.
-Make a Lasting Impact: Your insights and encouragement will shape their confidence and set them on the path to success.
Join us on Friday, September 26th, from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM at the Collin College Conference Center in McKinney, Texas.
Ready to Be a Volunteer? Click here and sign up today: https://tinyurl.com/44ps6wrv
Space is limited, so don't miss out!
We look forward to partnering with you to make this a truly inspiring event for the students.
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and Hydrocephalus Awareness Month
Childhood cancer is one of the leading causes of death among children and adolescents worldwide. On average, more than 290 children and adolescents in the U.S. are diagnosed with cancer each week. Across the country, September has been designated for raising awareness about pediatric cancer, supporting children and families affected by the disease, and funding crucial research for better treatments and cures.
September is also Hydrocephalus Awareness Month – a chance to bring national attention to the one million Americans living with hydrocephalus, a disorder that causes an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. Hydrocephalus is a serious condition that can affect people of all ages. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
Childhood cancer is one of the leading causes of death among children and adolescents worldwide. On average, more than 290 children and adolescents in the U.S. are diagnosed with cancer each week. Across the country, September has been designated for raising awareness about pediatric cancer, supporting children and families affected by the disease, and funding crucial research for better treatments and cures.
September is also Hydrocephalus Awareness Month – a chance to bring national attention to the one million Americans living with hydrocephalus, a disorder that causes an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. Hydrocephalus is a serious condition that can affect people of all ages. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
This week’s Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week is senior John Allen from McKinney High School.
Video: https://youtu.be/aqIGubzfBdc
John serves as a captain for the Lions Football team, and he is a two-year varsity starter, along with being a 2024 All-District Selection.
John is an AP Scholar with Honors, and he is enrolled in 11 AP classes with a 4.16 GPA.
John is a member of PALS, and he volunteers for service projects with his McKinney High School football team.
He also owns and operates a landscaping business.
Next year John plans on playing football at the collegiate level while studying Economics or Mechanical Engineering.
That’s John Allen from McKinney High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
Video: https://youtu.be/aqIGubzfBdc
John serves as a captain for the Lions Football team, and he is a two-year varsity starter, along with being a 2024 All-District Selection.
John is an AP Scholar with Honors, and he is enrolled in 11 AP classes with a 4.16 GPA.
John is a member of PALS, and he volunteers for service projects with his McKinney High School football team.
He also owns and operates a landscaping business.
Next year John plans on playing football at the collegiate level while studying Economics or Mechanical Engineering.
That’s John Allen from McKinney High School, our Dennis Baker State Farm Scholar Athlete of the Week.
McKinney ISD Teacher Spotlight
Yary Lira
The Lion Yearbook Adviser
Journalism & Photojournalism Teacher
McKinney High School
Years in Education: 4
When Yary Lira arrived at McKinney High School in 2022, fresh from UNT, it didn't take her long to stand out. That fall, she was named the December MHS Campus Teacher of the Month, and since then, she has continued to garner recognition locally, at the state level and nationally for her work as a journalism and photojournalism teacher and as The Lion yearbook adviser.
In 2024, Lira was chosen as an MISD Inspirational Teacher, and she received the prestigious Pathfinder Award from the Texas Association of Journalism Educators. https://www.taje.org/pathfinder-award/ This year, she has been named a 2025 Rising Star by the Journalism Education Association (JEA)—one of only 12 educators chosen each year from across the country. https://jea.org/news/jea-honors-12-rising-stars-in-2025/
But, more importantly, Lira has helped her students shine, and during her time at MHS, they have collected a truly dizzying array of awards:
—NSPA Pacemaker for The Lion 2024 https://studentpress.org/nspa/2024-yearbook-pacemakers/
—NSPA Critique Service for The Lion 2024 - All-American Rating with five marks of distinction
—NSPA Critique Service for The Lion 2023 - All-American Rating with five marks of distinction
—NSPA Individual Award Finalists 2024 - Design of the Year: Theme Package, Sports Photo of the Year
—CSPA Critique Service for The Lion 2023 - Gold Medalist Rating
—UIL Texas ILPC Gold Star for The Lion 2024, Bronze Star for The Lion 2023
—Walsworth Gallery of Excellence - The Lion 2023, The Lion 2025
—Walsworth Possibilities Book 2023 - Photos and spreads featured from The Lion 2023, Cover photo from The Lion 2023
—JEA Communication: Journalism Education Today Magazine - Featured spreads from The Lion 2023
—NHSJC National Student Media Contests 2023-2025: 12 individual awards, The Lion 2024 5th place Best of Show
—TAJE Fall Fiesta 2022-2024: 31 individual awards, The Lion 2023 3rd place Best of Show, The Lion 2024 3rd place Best of Show
—TAJE Best in Texas 2024: 24 individual awards
—Texas UIL Awards 2023-2025: 29 ILPC individual achievement awards, 3 Tops in Texas awards
—Texas UIL Journalism 2023-2025: 3 regional qualifiers, 1 state qualifier and 5th place medalist
—Association of Texas Photography Instructors 2022-2024: 6 individual awards
Beyond MHS, Lira has served as a Walsworth Summer Workshop instructor and twice as an NSPA Gloria Shields Workshop assistant instructor to share her expertise in yearbook production.
McKinney ISD is proud to shine the spotlight on MHS' Yary Lira!
McKinney ISD will be closed on Monday, September 1, for Labor Day. Classes will resume on Tuesday, September 2.
We hope you have a wonderful weekend!
We hope you have a wonderful weekend!
Welcome to another episode of the McKinney ISD Podcast. Today we are talking with school board member, Corey Homer.
Episode: https://youtu.be/CxJL_uDQo_I
Mr. Homer has several years of experience in public education, and he was elected to our school board last May. In today's episode Corey tells us about his passion for serving and his enjoyment in the accomplishments of this school district, as well as his hopes to lead with intentional purpose.
Episode: https://youtu.be/CxJL_uDQo_I
Mr. Homer has several years of experience in public education, and he was elected to our school board last May. In today's episode Corey tells us about his passion for serving and his enjoyment in the accomplishments of this school district, as well as his hopes to lead with intentional purpose.
