Our Namesake - Phil Garrett (Garrett Ag Center)

Phil Garrett: A Legacy of Character and Craftsmanship

Phillip Clifton Garrett (1954–2017) was a dedicated educator, veteran, and "jack-of-all-trades" whose impact on the Quinlan Independent School District is honored through the naming of the Phil Garrett Ag. Center. Located on the east side of Thompson Middle School (TMS), the center serves as a permanent tribute to a man who believed that teaching was not just a job, but a way of life.

Educational Philosophy and Impact

Mr. Garrett’s approach to teaching was rooted in practicality and the development of versatile skills. He often noted that his primary goal was to make every student as valuable as possible to future employers, their families, and their communities. He was famous for his "Cowboy Try" and a no-quit attitude that he sought to instill in every student.

• Instructional Style: He utilized "teaching moments" in everyday tasks—like answering a phone—to build real-world confidence.
• Student Engagement: Known for his contagious passion and "Wild West stories," he made learning fun to ensure his 170 annual students remained fully engaged.
• Mentor and Leader: Beyond the classroom, he served as a mentor teacher, trained FFA Leadership teams, and was a recommended mentor by the Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas.

Professional Journey

Phil Garrett’s path to the classroom was shaped by a lifetime of diverse experiences:

• Military Service: He served three years in the U.S. Army as a Veterinary Specialist at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.
• Education: He earned both his Bachelor of Science (1980) and Master of Science in Teaching (1982) in Agricultural Education from Tarleton State University.
• Career: Before finding his home at TMS in 1999, he worked in ranching, construction, and specialized teaching roles. He spent his last 18 years dedicated to Quinlan ISD.

Awards and Community Service

His dedication earned him numerous accolades and the deep respect of the Quinlan community:

• TMS Teacher of the Year: Awarded in 2005 and 2016.
• Community Builder Award: Given in 2011 by the Scyene Masonic Lodge for his service to the City of Quinlan.
• Volunteer of the Year: Awarded in 2006 by the Hunt County Youth Organization.
• Community Roles: He served as the Hunt County Fair Goat Superintendent and was a board member for the Hunt County Junior Livestock Association.
• Memorial Scholarships: Memorial scholarships in his name were created upon his passing, both with the local Quinlan FFA chapter and the Hunt County Junior Livestock Association.

He didn't just raise livestock; he raised character. Through quiet hands and a generous heart, he sowed seeds of hard work and kindness in every student he reached.