Bowie Elementary was named after James "Jim" Bowie a hero of the Alamo. It was where an important battle was fought during the Texas Revolution.

Bowie started out in portables. Mr. Bill Roach was the principal for Bowie and Wester. Students and teachers were there as the school was built. On moving day students, parents, staff and teachers moved the materials from the portables to the new building. Mrs. Pat Farrar was the first school secretary.

Bowie has had five principals. Mr. Bill Roach, Mr. Joe Williams, Mr. Denzil Minyard, Chris Brown, and Mrs. Anita Rangel.