WE ARE THE BRONCOS

Our Story

The original McKinney Boyd High School, built in 1914, was named in honor of Mary Elizabeth Crane Boyd, whose generosity and commitment to education left a lasting impact on the McKinney community. Today, McKinney Boyd High School proudly carries forward her legacy while honoring the generations of students who attended one of McKinney’s earliest high schools.

William L. “Captain” Boyd was born and raised in Illinois. After serving in the Union Army during the Civil War, he moved to McKinney and established a successful general merchandise business on the historic downtown square. He later became one of the early stockholders of Collin County Bank. In 1878, he married Mary Elizabeth Crane, who had relocated to McKinney from New York two years earlier.

The Boyds were married for 28 years before Captain Boyd passed away in 1906. Following his death, Mary Elizabeth Boyd continued to devote herself to serving others and supporting educational opportunities for local students.

In 1914, as McKinney prepared to open a new high school, the district lacked the funds needed to furnish the building. Mrs. Boyd donated $3,000 to provide furniture and equipment for the school. In recognition of her generosity, the school board named the campus McKinney Boyd High School.

Her commitment to education extended far beyond that initial gift. Upon her death in 1937, Mrs. Boyd established a $20,000 education fund to help McKinney students pursue higher education. Over the years, the fund has continued to grow, providing financial assistance to generations of students dedicated to furthering their education.

The original McKinney Boyd High School served as the community’s high school for 45 years. In 1959, the building was retired following the opening of a new McKinney High School campus.

In 2006, the Boyd name returned to McKinney ISD with the opening of the current McKinney Boyd High School. Situated on 56 wooded acres along North Lake Forest Drive, Boyd High School has become a cornerstone of the community, impacting thousands of students, families, and graduates while continuing the tradition of excellence established more than a century ago.

Today, the Bronco spirit reflects a proud heritage of service, perseverance, opportunity, and achievement.

About McKinney Independent School District

Located in one of the fastest-growing communities in North Texas, McKinney Independent School District serves more than 24,500 students through a diverse network of elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as specialized campuses designed to meet the needs of all learners.

McKinney ISD is committed to inspiring and equipping every student to achieve their unique potential. Through innovative teaching, rigorous academic programs, meaningful relationships, and strong community partnerships, the district prepares students to become critical thinkers, effective communicators, creative problem-solvers, and responsible citizens.

The district’s success is driven by the leadership of its Board of Trustees, the dedication of highly qualified educators and staff, and the unwavering support of families and community members who value educational excellence. Together, these stakeholders create learning environments where students are challenged, supported, and empowered to succeed.

McKinney ISD has earned a reputation for academic excellence, consistently outperforming regional and state averages on state assessments and college readiness indicators. Students have access to a wide range of opportunities in advanced academics, career and technical education, fine arts, athletics, leadership development, and extracurricular activities that support the whole child.

The district is also recognized for outstanding programs in fine arts, athletics, career readiness, and student leadership. McKinney ISD students and educators regularly earn state and national recognition for excellence in teaching, learning, innovation, and performance.

As a destination district, McKinney ISD continues to invest in future-focused learning experiences that prepare students for success in college, careers, military service, and life. By fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and belonging, McKinney ISD remains dedicated to developing tomorrow’s leaders and ensuring every student reaches their full potential.

For more information about McKinney ISD, visit www.mckinneyisd.net.