Tyler Boyd is not your typical high school senior. In fact, he enjoys being unique and different from other young people. While many teenagers only think of today, Tyler has known what he wanted to do with his life for a long time. He wants to teach history on the college level.

“After graduation, I plan to further my education at the University of North Texas in Denton with a major in history. I would like to get my doctorate and be a history professor,” Boyd said.

Tyler is the son of Ricky and Monica Boyd of Italy. He is a senior at Italy High School and an active member of Central Baptist Church and their youth department.

Tyler has never bowed to peer pressure. He is an excellent role model for younger students. He knows that hard work and determination can get him where he wants to go. He believes that you should be good to your friends, but that does not necessarily mean you have to follow them.

“I tried never to let my friends influence what I would do. I am responsible for every decision I make and those decisions will follow me the rest of my life. I am most proud of making and having good friends.”

One of the people that has influenced Tyler the most is Brittany Hayes. They were classmates until she died of leukemia in 2003. Brittany left a mark on Tyler. No matter what she was going through, she always had a big smile. He misses his friend very much. He knows graduation will be bitter sweet because Brittany will not be there to walk across the stage with their class.

Tyler said he has no regrets and would not change any part of his life. He feels he is very lucky to have the family he has.

“My parents have always been there for me. They are encouraging and helpful. They taught me how to be productive. They are the best role models I could every have. I am proud to be their son.”

The Texas High School Coaches Association recently named Boyd to their All Academic Football team. High School football coaches nominate team members for the honor. The requirements for that honor include being a senior, having a cumulative grade of 92 or above and be a team member in good standing. The THSCA uses the athletes’ class rank and scores from ACT/SAT to divide them into 1st team, 2nd team and honorable mention. Tyler was selected to receive 1st team honors.

“Tyler is a renaissance man, showing an aptitude in so many different subjects. He definitely does Italy proud,” said Craig Bales, IHS head football coach.

Tyler’s most memorable football game in high school was the Palmer game this year, the first game he got to start in. That was one of the highlights of his time with the Gladiators.

He has varied interest including swimming and archery. He also collects unusual swords. He has been a volunteer for the Ellis County SPCA for two years. He has many high school memories, but will probably not forget being a Powder Puff cheerleader this year.

“The other guys and I had fun pretending to be cheerleaders. I guess one of my legacies at Italy High School will be Toodles – she will always live on,” he said with a laugh.

Boyd has attended the Academic Banquet for the past three years. He was inducted into the National Honor Society and Who’s Who of American High School Students. He participated in UIL, Student Council, Future Farmers of America and Central Baptist Church Youth Council. He has also received the DAR Good Citizen Award.

Tyler Boyd has attained all his goals at Italy High School. Upon graduation he will set new goals. From all indications, he will meet and exceed them also. He is focused, hard working and determined. Italy High School and our community is very fortunate that he calls Italy home.