M.T. Rice and his wife Sarah arrived at Midway schools in the 1948-49 academic year, leaving an indelible mark that reverberates through the community to this day. Initially serving as High School Principal and coach, M.T. later assumed the role of Superintendent, guiding Midway's educational landscape until his retirement in 1974.

During his tenure, M.T. Rice etched his legacy through a multitude of triumphs. His coaching prowess brought forth numerous district titles, including an unmatched undefeated football season and the crowning glory of two girls' state basketball championships. As an advocate, Rice was instrumental in the UIL's decision to include girls' track as a sport and started the program at Midway High School.

As a student-centered leader, M.T. created many other opportunities to get involved including band, volleyball, and choir. These organizations influenced by Coach Rice have become foundational pieces of Midway's pride and have instilled in the students the same sense of excellence, community engagement, and individual accountability that the coach championed on a regular basis.

These accomplishments would not be possible without his wife, Sarah Rice. She stood as an integral pillar of both Midway's and M.T.'s success. Her responsibilities in her time included teaching, office administration, overseeing the school lunch program, bookkeeping, transporting and chaperoning various sports teams.

Though M.T. and Sarah have passed, their influence on the community endures, permeating the essence of Midway. Each year, the spirit of their commitment to our youth is celebrated during Midway's annual winter holiday basketball tournament.