Walking the same halls she once navigated as a student, Mea Farmer has returned to South Garland High School with a new purpose: helping students create the kind of high school experience she remembers most.

Farmer graduated from South in 2015, back when the school still used its former mascot. During her time on campus, she was a member of the Southern Belles drill team and the band. She later studied forensic science at Texas Southern University and worked as a parole officer for a few years. 

"Honestly, I was looking to get out of law enforcement because it really wasn't my thing," Farmer said.

After reaching out to Garland ISD about potential opportunities, she was connected with campus leadership and returned to South Garland in 2022 as a teacher.

"From there, everything just kind of fell into place," she said.

In her classes, students explore entrepreneurship, budgeting, and small business operations while working toward certifications that support college, trade school, and career pathways.

Her connection to the cheer program happened unexpectedly.

One afternoon, Farmer returned to campus after accidentally leaving her water bottle behind. While walking back through the building, former cheer coach Ms. Lewis stopped her and asked her to watch the team's competition routine.

That moment led to conversations with the coaching staff and, eventually, to a larger role within the program. After helping the team alongside assistant coach Ms. Page following Lewis' passing, Farmer later became an assistant coach and eventually stepped into the head coaching position herself.

Since then, the cheer program has grown from just a few students to nearly 20 members.

For Farmer, returning to South has been both surreal and rewarding.

"It's weird, but cool," she said. "I still have former teachers who are now my coworkers."

She often shares her own story with students as a reminder that success can grow from the same classrooms and hallways they walk every day.

"I tell them I walked these same halls," Farmer said. "If I can do it, they can do it too."

Outside the classroom and gym, Farmer has focused on strengthening school spirit and helping students connect with traditions that shaped her own experience at South Garland.

Her efforts have included bringing back battle cries at pep rallies, hallway parades during homecoming week, posters and streamers throughout the campus, blackout pep rallies, and encouraging students to learn the alma mater.

"I try to add in just the basics," Farmer said. "The kids don't know the words to the alma mater, and I was forced to learn it as a Southern Belle. So I make sure my girls learn it before school starts."

South Garland's mascot transition in 2021 marked a new chapter for the campus. However, Farmer said many traditions and memories connected to the school remain an important part of campus life.

Assistant Principal Jessica Hill said Farmer has played a major role in strengthening school culture and rebuilding traditions on campus.

"She came in wanting to bring back the pride of the south side," Hill said. "She has been working to bring back traditions and elevate the school culture."

"South is South," Hill added.

Farmer said the work is ultimately about helping students enjoy their high school experience and create memories that stay with them long after graduation.

"High school should be fun," she said.

One senior recently told Farmer that a pep rally this year was the best she had experienced during her four years at South Garland. For Farmer, moments like that reinforce the impact of the work she continues to pour into the campus community.

"I enjoyed high school. It was the best years of my life," Farmer said. "I just want the students to have fun and make memories too."

As she continues leading in the classroom and on the sidelines, Farmer remains focused on strengthening school pride and creating lasting memories for the South Garland Titans.