On Saturday, Sept. 9, Texas High School hosted the Miss THS pageant for the first time in over 5 years. Former Miss Texas Stacy Mayo brought back this pageant with the goal of inspiring young girls to feel confident in themselves by challenging them to step out of their comfort zones. It’s also a chance for students to win scholarships.

In order to be a contestant for Miss Texas High, participants were required to participate in multiple categories similar to what one would see at a more official pageant. 

“[Contestants compete in} interview, casual wear, and evening wear,” director Stacy Mayo said. “Talent is optional, but those that do it will be scored separately and we will crown a talent winner,” 

Participants were also required to attend daily rehearsals in preparation for the pageant. During these rehearsals, Mayo instructed the contestants on how to properly do a pageant walk, taught them their opening routine and gave them guidance to carry with them not only throughout the week, but also through life. 

“I have seen in just one week, many girls blossom and show much more confidence than they came with,” Mayo said. “That’s why I do this. Pageants changed my life for the better, and although there are pros and cons, [performing on stage] can help them later on in life with many things.”

The Miss THS pageant was full of entertainment in between categories, including a piano ballad and guitar routine by sophomore David Mayo, and several dance routines. Routines were Barbie themed and included songs such as “I’m just Ken,” “Pink” and “Dance the Night.” 

“I played a piano medley consisting of songs like Charlie Brown and the Piano Man. I also played Black Bird on the guitar,” Mayo said.

At the pageant, Mayo invited several current titleholders to encourage contestants and guide them through the day, including Miss Texas 2023 Ellie Breaux, International Cinderella Miss Alexis Mayo and International Cinderella Tot Kaleia Noa. These three ladies helped contestants prepare for the pageant by giving them inspiration, along with Mayo choreographing and teaching the Tiger Prince and Princess routine.

“I enjoyed getting to see my sister help the younger kids,” Mayo said. “I feel like she would make a good teacher someday.”

Although all 19 contestants performed with poise, grace, and class, there can only be one winner.  Cassidy Grant was crowned this year’s Miss Texas High School.

“I feel so excited, happy and grateful that I won,” Grant said. “I really just want to make everyone happy.”

The Miss THS pageant is an opportunity for young teens to make new friends, gain a new perspective on pageantry, and make everlasting memories to carry with them throughout their lives. 

“This experience has been really uplifting because it allowed me to be around girls just like myself which really boosted my confidence,” senior Victoria Dean said. “I’m glad I got to experience this to add onto the memories of my senior year.”