From Hallway Conversations to Graduation

Over eight years ago, Jackson Rogers and I started our conversations in the hallways of Smith Elementary. Our conversations, often centered around basketball and college sports, sparked many engaging discussions. Today, he will walk through the hallways of Wylie High School for the last time, preparing to cross the stage on Saturday as a proud member of the graduating class of 2024.

The best part of my day is the time I spend visiting with kids and sharing life with them. Cheering on Jackson as he played his final varsity basketball game in the playoffs against Mansfield Lake Ridge was bittersweet, but I was filled with pride. While I will miss seeing Jackson and his parents, I’m grateful for the lasting memories and meaningful relationships made with families like the Rogers through this job.

In August of 2011, the kindergarteners of Wylie ISD and I embarked on our first day of school together. Fast forward to today, and these same students are set to graduate on Saturday, May 25, after years of growth and shared history. I am happy and proud of them, but like their parents, a small part of me is sad to see them leave. They are now remarkable young adults, ready to take on the world. As Dr. Seuss so aptly put it, they have “brains in their head and feet in their shoes” and can steer themselves in any direction they choose.

For 13 years, I’ve watched over and prayed for these kids. Through hailstorms, a global pandemic, championships and celebrations, they have met every challenge with spirit, character and the core ethical values that will help them be amazing adults. As I reflect, I am heartened by the memories I have of their parents, too. You are my neighbors, friends and colleagues, but more importantly, you are these babies’ champions. You molded them into the amazing people we see today.

At the heart of a great education are the teachers who helped these students become some of the highest academic achievers in the history of our school district. Their coaches, directors and principals have also contributed to their accomplishments and future successes.

Over these 13 years, the sun has also faithfully risen and set on countless school days that started and ended with bus drivers safely carrying them to and from school with love and encouragement…a testament to the unwavering commitment of every Wylie ISD staff member.

Parents, thank you for sharing these seniors with us and entrusting us with their education. It has been an honor and a privilege to witness their journey—filled with learning, growth, laughter, and celebrations—all guided by The Wylie Way.

As our seniors get ready for this next chapter of their lives, we can’t wait to see what their future has in store. Please continue to keep us updated on their achievements and milestones – those emails and grocery store conversations are some of my favorites.

Enjoy the trip down memory lane by scrolling through the photos below.