A 2009 graduate of Buford High School, Katie Lynn McClure is using her knowledge and skills in physical therapy to empower kids to reach their highest potential — Katie is a pediatric physical therapist with All About Kids Therapy Services and Buford City Schools.
“My job has taught me how resilient and determined kids can be if we provide them with the best tools and opportunities to succeed while caring for them unconditionally,” she said.
Katie started at Buford High School her sophomore year after her parents, Jack and Karen Lynn, moved their family to Buford.
“I am grateful for my parents’ sacrifice and willingness to move to Buford in 10th grade as it changed my life’s trajectory,” she said. “I do have deep Buford roots as my dad graduated from Buford High School in 1970 and my mom graduated from North Gwinnett High School in 1976 in Suwanee.
“My parents as well as my brother Joseph have encouraged me and challenged me in my journey through this crazy life which has allowed me to reach goals I never thought I could achieve,” she continued. “Family is a huge part of my life and will always be as I continue to grow my own family and accomplish my future endeavors.”
Katie credits Spanish class at Buford High School for enhancing her ability to communicate in her job.
“I was unsure in high school how the Spanish language would help me in my future endeavors, however, I use the Spanish language daily in my career as a physical therapist to communicate with families in their personal homes and in a clinical setting to meet the gross motor needs of their children,” Katie said. “Thank you so much Mrs. Jamie Thomas for sharing your love for the language!”
In athletics at Buford, Katie played for the team that brought home the school’s first state championship in girls basketball.
“I would love to go back and play basketball with my old teammates and coaches,” said Katie, who now helps coach fifth and sixth grade basketball teams. “We had so many great memories at camps, Breakfast Club, countless hours of practice, and games.
“I often look back and wonder how I ever made it through (Buford’s) Women’s Basketball program because it was mentally and physically demanding,” she continued, “but it taught me a lot about life and hard work. I made some great friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.”
After graduating from Buford in 2009, Katie played basketball at Oglethorpe University for a year before transferring to the University of Georgia, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science. She then pursued a doctorate in physical therapy at the University of North Georgia.
Katie is married to Buford native Zach McClure and they reside in Flowery Branch. Katie loves running for fun and participating in local races.
The Buford High School alumni spotlights are made possible by the generosity of the City of Buford.
