Philip Hassler President at McKinney ISD | Official website
McKinney, Texas – The McGowen Elementary library was filled with McKinney ISD high school seniors and teachers on Monday, May 20, making it difficult to move around the room. As they entered in a long line to sign in and grab breakfast, familiar faces from the past were spotted, leading to joyful reunions.
The event was the McGowen Senior Breakfast, part of a district-wide tradition that invites soon-to-be graduates from McKinney Boyd High School, McKinney High School, and McKinney North High School back to their elementary schools for one final visit before graduation.
Kat Raehpour from MHS reflected on her experience: “Everything looks really small. I remember it being so much bigger,” she said. “It’s really great getting to see people that I don’t go to school with now from the other high schools [after] we got split up [to different schools].”
Former teachers also attended the event to see their former students once more and observe how they have grown over the past seven years. These students left McGowen as children and returned as young adults.
Jesse McGowen, the school's namesake and a significant figure in MISD history, was present at the event. Students and teachers approached him for handshakes and hugs. Principal Kim Luyster commented on his presence: “This is such a special event at McGowen because Mr. McGowen comes every year,” she said. “We’re just so excited for the McGowen seniors of 2024, and we just wish them the best.”
The seniors then participated in the traditional Senior Walk through the halls of McGowen as current students cheered them on. This walk allowed current students to glimpse their future while sending off this year's seniors.
Following a group photo with Jesse McGowen, many seniors headed to the gym with their former P.E. Coach Nick Relle. They engaged in activities reminiscent of their elementary days, including playing with a parachute and riding scooters with foam noodles.
MHS senior Jackson Davis expressed his joy: “It’s awesome to see a bunch of familiar faces,” he said. “Friends I haven’t seen in a long time [and] reconnecting with teachers that I admired.”
Coach Relle shared his thoughts as well: “I think it’s amazing that they’re back,” he said. “I haven’t seen some of them in 7 or 8 years... It’s so cool to see how they’ve matured...and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.”
As these seniors prepare for their futures, events like this offer an opportunity to reflect on their pasts.
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