Gunter, Texas — Two Gunter Independent School District students have earned Eagle Scout status, including an eighth grader.

Mitch McConnell, son of Zack and Linda McConnell of Gunter, earned his Eagle Scout rank shortly before his 14th birthday. For his community service project, Mitch built a large fire pit at Myers Park in McKinney. The Gunter Middle School student also earned 60 merit badges during his involvement with scouts and is active in choir and band. Mitch is a member of Troop 1013 in the Iron Horse District.

“We are extremely proud of Mitch McConnell attaining the rank of Eagle Scout,” said Kevin Dritschler, Scoutmaster. “It’s maturity, not age that counts. Some boys like Mitch have a natural skill in leadership and discipline. He was motivated, focused and he worked hard to earn it.”

Also earning his Eagle Scout rank recently was Kirk Johnson, Jr., son of Kirk and Angele Johnson of Van Alstyne. Kirk, a senior at Gunter High School, has been active with Scouts since 2001 when he joined as a Tiger Cub and organized a crew to build a 25-foot bridge at Eisenhower State Park near Lake Texoma.

After graduation, Kirk plans on attending Grayson County College. He is a member of Troop 44 in the Texoma Valley district.

“We have seen several students achieve Eagle Scout rank this school year and are so proud of their accomplishments,” said Dr. Jill Siler, Gunter schools superintendent. “It is a mark of their character and perseverance. I look forward to seeing what they accomplish in the future.”

For more information about Gunter Independent School District, visit www.gunterisd.org.

For over 100 years, the Gunter Independent School District has provided an exceptional educational experience to students in southern Grayson County.  Located 25 miles north of Frisco and 20 miles southwest of Sherman, Gunter ISD is a 2A school district with 800 students that excels at various athletic programs (cross country, football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, softball, wrestling, swimming, tennis, golf, powerlifting and track) as well as extracurricular programs (band, choir, academic UIL, robotics, FFA, Beta Club, NEHS, one act play and more). In 2012, Gunter High School was ranked in the top 10 in the UIL Lone Star Cup, rating the best high schools in athletics, academics & fine arts.  For more information visit www.gunterisd.org