McKinney, Texas -  Before he walked into Laura Smith’s AVID class at McKinney High School four years ago, Jaime Tamayo was content with his academic aspirations. But, his first conversation with Smith changed that—and fundamentally altered the trajectory of Jaime’s academic career.

So, when the Barnes & Noble My Favorite Teacher Essay Contest showed up on his radar recently, Jaime saw an opportunity to honor the person who had impacted his life in such a significant way.


Laura Smith and Jaime Tamayo at the Barnes & Noble My Favorite Teacher Essay Contest local winner award presentation.

“Before I came across this memorable teacher,” Jaime wrote, “I never sought to challenge myself by taking upper-level courses. I never looked for ways to engage in new activities or opportunities, and I didn’t believe it was necessary for me to set new goals or higher standards. I was completely unaware of the true value of an education.

“The first conversation I had with [Ms. Smith] was her telling me I needed to get a schedule change because I wasn’t taking any upper-level courses. I was afraid of those classes. I didn’t believe I was capable of surviving in that type of environment, but she still forced me to do it.


“And, now as a high school senior, I realize how crucial that moment was because it was there where I discovered the potential I had within me, where I left my comfort zone and became more ambitious, more open to challenges and to setting higher standards for myself.

“It was thanks to that moment that I’m able to have a high GPA that reflects the hard work I put into all the upper-level courses I took through high school. And, because of them, I can now proudly say that I’ve been accepted to several universities.”

As it turned out, Jaime’s heartfelt tribute won the local round of the contest, and on Thursday, April 9, he had the opportunity to read it at the Creekwalk Barnes & Noble location in Plano in front of Smith, some teachers from MHS, his mom and anyone else in the store who wanted to listen. He and Smith each received a bagful of books and gift certificates along with a certificate of recognition.

Now, Jaime’s essay will move to the regional round of the competition, and if it wins, will garner a $500 prize for Smith. The national winning essay receives $5,000 for the teacher and a $500 gift card for the student.

“I am honored and humbled Jaime chose me for his favorite teacher,” said Smith. “It has been a privilege to support him along the way. His determination and hard work have led to his academic and personal success, and I am proud to have taught such a kind, dedicated, honest, respectful and overall amazing student.”

Where he was once content to take the easy path through high school, Jaime is now headed to the University of North Texas with plans to pursue a career in sports marketing.

“[Ms. Smith] taught me that I have the same opportunities others have, and…thanks to her, I’m now on the proper path to success, looking to further my education at a university and, hopefully, one day make all of my dreams come true.”

For additional information on McKinney ISD, contact Shane Mauldin, MISD Communications Coordinator, at 469-302-4007 or smauldin@mckinneyisd.net.

McKinney, Texas - From the youngest elementary students just beginning to learn the rudiments of music to the accomplished musicians earning statewide recognition in high school, McKinney ISD has earned a well-deserved reputation for providing top-notch music education from beginning to end of its students’ academic careers.

In recognition of that commitment, MISD has been included in the 2017 list of Best Communities for Music Education by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), placing MISD among a select group that represents only about 4 percent of the roughly 14,000 U.S. school districts.


McKinney Boyd High School Jazz Ensemble

“NAMM has, for many years, recognized communities with strong and vibrant music education programs,” said MISD Director of Fine Arts Dr. Dan White. “To be considered, districts must complete an extensive application that includes information on student participation, demographic representation, staffing for all music groups, budgetary and administrative staff support and examples of program success. It is an honor to be recognized this year by the NAMM Foundation and, most importantly, a great tribute to the fantastic work by all the music teachers in MISD.”

The NAMM Best Communities for Education program began 18 years ago to recognize “outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education part of the curriculum,” according to a recent NAMM press release.

The NAMM Foundation works alongside researchers at the Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas to evaluate school districts and compile its list each year. These districts set the bar in offering students access to comprehensive music education.

And, MISD music students make the most of their opportunities to shine. In addition to students earning individual state honors each year, MISD ensembles have flourished as well, and the district boasts the distinction of having had a TMEA Honor Choir at every level (McKinney Boyd High School, Evans Middle School and Eddins Elementary School). In addition, the Faubion Middle School Symphonic I Band, Faubion Honors Orchestra, Cockrill Middle School Honors Band and McKinney Boyd Honors Orchestra have all performed at the internationally famous Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in recent years.

In 2015, the Faubion Full Orchestra earned the title of TMEA Middle School Honor Full Orchestra, a distinction awarded each year to the best middle school orchestra in the state. Over the past few years, the Cockrill Middle School Honors Band has made a tradition of earning the title of National Winner in the Mark of Excellence National Wind Band Honors Contest. And, in a feat that is rarely accomplished, the McKinney High School and McKinney North High School Marching Bands qualified for the state marching contest during the same year in 2015.

But, the benefits of the training MISD music students receive go beyond nurturing and developing their artistic talents.

“Studying music has intrinsic benefits and, on its own, is core to learning,” NAMM Foundation Executive Director Mary Luehrsen said in the NAMM release. “Also, the links between student success and music education have now been demonstrated by brain researchers in multiple studies. The schools and districts our foundation recognizes are building on that connection between music and academics. These schools and districts are models for other educators who see music as a key ingredient in a well-rounded curriculum that makes music available to all children, regardless of zip code,” she said.

To find testimony of the tremendous importance of music education, one need look no further than Faubion Middle School and the moving story of Band Director Brian Beck, who struggled to make it through elementary school—until he stumbled upon music. It changed the trajectory of his life.

Or just pull aside a student in any MISD band class—or choir, or orchestra, and you’ll find stories that go far beyond notes on a page.

Music education opens doors, and if you listen carefully and look closely, you’ll find them all across the district. Some open to friendship and belonging. Others lead to success on a stage. For some, those doors lead to greater academic achievement.

And, for a few students, that door standing open before them will completely change their lives.

For additional information on McKinney ISD, contact Shane Mauldin, MISD Communications Coordinator, at 469-302-4007 or smauldin@mckinneyisd.net.
 

McKinney, Texas - After 27 years in education, longtime Burks Elementary Principal Pam Bendorf has announced her plan to retire in December. The district has chosen current Minshew Principal Al Conley as Bendorf’s successor at Burks.

Both will remain at their current campuses through the conclusion of the 2016-2017 school year. Conley will assume his duties as principal of Burks this summer in preparation for the 2017-2018 school year, and Bendorf will remain in service to the district through December.

“It has been my extreme pleasure to work with a great group of people who give their hearts for the students every day,” Bendorf said. “I love each of our Burks Eagles and will miss their smiles and hugs. I’ve learned so much over the years in McKinney ISD and will be forever grateful for the opportunities afforded me as a result.”


Pam Bendorf smiles in front of Burks Elementary where she has served as principal for the past 11 years. She recently announced her plan to retire after 27 years in education.

Bendorf added that she is interested in counseling and in her retirement may pursue credentials to re-enter the education arena at the post-secondary level. But, the door of possibilities is wide open. “Who knows, maybe I can do some of the traveling I have dreamed about for years. The world is my oyster, and I plan on finding a perfect pearl!”  

Bendorf began her career as an elementary teacher in Anna ISD and later taught in Allen, but more than half of her career has revolved around MISD. Bendorf has invested just over a decade at Burks, having served as principal there for 11 of her 16 years in the district. As she reflected on passing the torch to a new principal, Bendorf expressed confidence in Conley’s leadership.  

“I believe Mr. Conley will be a positive addition to Burks Elementary,” Bendorf said. “I’ve known him for several years and have admired his commitment to the students at the schools where he has served. I leave Burks knowing it will be in good hands, and the students, staff and parent communities will be well cared for.”

Regarding the transition in leadership, Suzy Woodard, MISD assistant superintendent of elementary student support said, “It’s been a privilege to work with Pam Bendorf as a colleague over my 15 years in the district, and I’m excited for her as she enters this new chapter of her life. I know that she and Mr. Conley are going to work closely together to plan a smooth transition, and I’m excited about what Al is going to bring to the Burks team.”

Conley will move over from Minshew Elementary where he has served as principal for the past three and a half years.

He began his career in 1999 as a 5th grade teacher in Grapevine/Colleyville ISD and two years later, served in the same capacity for Frisco ISD. He later spent a year teaching in Georgia, but returned to North Texas to serve at Webb Elementary in MISD where he would teach 5th grade and 2nd grade over the next five years. In 2007, he became the assistant principal at Minshew and served in that capacity for five years. In 2012, he transferred to Malvern Elementary where he was the assistant principal for one year before returning to Minshew in 2013 to serve as principal.

“It’s been a great privilege to serve as an assistant principal and principal at Minshew,” Conley said. “Through the years I have developed a close relationship with the Minshew family, and to serve in a school named after them is beyond words. I’m humbled to have had the opportunity to watch so many of our students develop into incredible young adults.

“This year, the first kindergarten class that walked through the doors of Minshew will graduate as seniors, so it feels like a good time to embark on a new journey. Burks has such a strong, rich history here in McKinney and the opportunity to serve there is quite an honor. I look forward to carrying on the legacy of Ms. Bendorf and becoming a part of the Burks family,” he said.

Conley holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Ohio Wesleyan University and a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of North Texas.

For additional information on McKinney ISD, contact Shane Mauldin, MISD Communications Coordinator, at 469-302-4007 or smauldin@mckinneyisd.net.

Click here to view the Fall flyer. (PDF)

Click here to view the Spring flyer. (PDF)

Click here to view the Morning flyer. (PDF)

Click here to visit MISD's Graduate Profile page.

Click here to visit MISD's Graduate Profile page.

Date: April 24
Time: 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Where: McKinney Boyd High School Cafeteria

Parents and students are welcome at any campus meeting regardless of your future home campus.

Please click here to download a flyer with other freshman laptop initiative parent meeting dates. (PDF)

MISD Career Expo!
With many companies and organizations represented at this come and go event, the MISD Career Expo is a great opportunity for high school students to learn more about:

• Career Opportunities
• Volunteer Opportunities
• Career Certification Information
• Summer Activities
• Summer Jobs
• Internships

Chance to win a free Echo!

MISD Career Expo
April 27, 2017
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
McKinney Boyd High School Cafeteria

Open to all current MISD high school students!

Questions? Email misdcareernight@gmail.com.

Companies interested in hosting a table, please fill out our Google doc: http://bit.ly/2kOCtBu

Date: May 8
Time: 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Where: McKinney High School Library

Parents and students are welcome at any campus meeting regardless of your future home campus.

Please click here to download a flyer with other freshman laptop initiative parent meeting dates. (PDF)

Location: Lawson Early Childhood Center, 500 Dowell St.
Time: 5:00 - 7:00p.m.

Click here to download the flyer. (PDF)

Student holiday if not needed to make-up for a bad weather day.