Sibling Edition: Barrett Arnold and Emily Swart

Then: Fossil Ridge High School, Class of 2005 (Barrett) and Class of 2002 (Emily)

Barrett Now: Timber Creek High School, SPED Inclusion Teacher
Emily Now: North Riverside Elementary, 3rd Grade Teacher

"We guess you could say we never really left... just took a long field trip into adulthood and came right back! Growing up in this district shaped who we are, from marching band rehearsals that tested Barrett's endurance (and Barrett’s ability to hit things on purpose) to theater productions that taught Emily 'the show must go on' despite backstage chaos – those experiences stayed with us in ways we didn’t fully appreciate until we found ourselves choosing careers in education. Now, Barrett brings the consistency, structure, and teamwork of the drumline to his work as a special education teacher, while Emily turns everyday 3rd-grade lessons into mini-productions – because once a theatre kid, always a theatre kid.

We both returned to Keller ISD because we remember what it felt like to be supported, challenged, and truly seen by our teachers and directors. This district didn’t just teach us content; it built our confidence and gave us a sense of belonging, especially in the arts. We’re proud to give back to the same community that gave us so much – and maybe sprinkle in a little extra rhythm and dramatic flair along the way!"

Keller ISD Campuses Attended: Parkview Elementary, Chisholm Trail Intermediate, Fossil Hill Middle, and Fossil Ridge High School