Jarrell Independent School District

Education Through Innovation

Building Futures Through Community, Career Pathways, and Growth

In the heart of central Texas, Jarrell Independent School District (ISD) is blazing a trail in public education, combining rapid growth with small-town values and forward-thinking strategies. Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Toni Hicks, the district has emerged as a model for community-driven education, placing strong emphasis on career and technical education (CTE), teacher and staff development, student equity, and safety.

With a steadfast mission to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed—regardless of background or zip code—Jarrell ISD is investing heavily in its people, partnerships, and infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of its growing community.

Guided by a Vision, Anchored in the Community

Dr. Hicks, who has been at the helm since 2020, is proud of how far the district has come. “Our growth has been exponential,” she explains, “but what grounds us is our commitment to engaging the community and listening to their voices as we plan for the future.”

One of the district’s key tools in shaping that future is its Long Range Planning Committee, which works alongside the school board to guide infrastructure decisions and policy development. Composed of long-time residents, new community members, and local stakeholders, the committee ensures that the district’s strategic planning remains inclusive, responsive, and transparent.

Laura Buckley, Assistant Superintendent and a long-time Jarrell resident, emphasizes that this collaborative mindset extends into daily operations. “We’ve created multiple avenues for engagement,” she says, pointing to active groups like the District Education Improvement Committee and the Jarrell Education Foundation. These entities offer platforms for parents, teachers, and business partners to provide input and champion innovative programs.

Expanding Opportunities Through CTE

One of Jarrell ISD’s most impressive accomplishments is its strong and growing Career and Technical Education program. Led by CTE Director Paul Boff, the district has developed a dynamic, industry-responsive curriculum that provides students with real-world skills and certifications across various career pathways—including health science, agricultural mechanics, and advanced manufacturing.

“Our programs are designed to adapt,” Boff explains. “We constantly engage with local industries and the Texas Workforce Commission to stay ahead of market demands. The goal is to give students the flexibility to explore multiple options and the confidence to pursue them.”

To that end, the district is constructing a new, dedicated CTE facility that will consolidate all career training programs under one roof. Scheduled to open by the next school year, the facility will house specialized labs and classrooms that mirror professional environments, from healthcare to trades.

The district’s reputation is already drawing attention from regional employers. “We’ve had numerous companies reach out to us,” Boff notes. “They want our students because they’re seeing the level of preparation we provide.”

Career fairs, youth expos, and internships are coordinated in partnership with Workforce Solutions and the local chamber of commerce, ensuring that Jarrell students gain exposure to career possibilities early and often.

Equity and Excellence for Every Student

Jarrell ISD’s approach to education is holistic and inclusive. Dr. Hicks and her team have made it a priority to dismantle barriers that might prevent students from accessing advanced courses or career pathways.

“We removed gatekeeper courses,” she says. “We want all students—regardless of academic history or background—to have equal access to meaningful opportunities.”

This inclusive philosophy is backed by robust professional development programs that equip teachers to support diverse learners, including English Language Learners and emergent bilingual students. Staff regularly participate in workshops, instructional coaching, and leadership academies tailored to different stages of their career.

Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) meet daily at the high school and middle school levels, giving teachers time to analyze data, share instructional strategies, and align practices to student needs. “We’re all rowing in the same direction,” Buckley says. “It’s about continuous improvement and collaboration.”

Fostering a Culture of Care and Safety

Jarrell ISD’s commitment to student well-being is evident in every corner of its campuses. Beyond academic achievement, the district prioritizes the emotional and physical safety of its students and staff.

At the heart of this effort is a unique and heartwarming initiative: a trained K-9 who is part of the Jarrell ISD Police Department, that not only enhances campus security but also serves as a comfort companion. “The dog has been a game changer,” says Nick Spinetto, Director of Communications. “It’s part of our safety plan, but also a source of joy and emotional support for our kids.”

Safety protocols are comprehensive, including secured vestibules, badge-access systems, and regular emergency drills. But the district also takes a proactive approach to emotional wellness. Staff are trained to greet students daily and recognize signs of stress or disengagement, fostering a culture where every student feels seen and supported.

For working families, the Paw Prints Child Development Center—located within the district—offers affordable, high-quality childcare for staff and extended family. It’s just one more way the district supports its team while reinforcing its community-first approach.

Communication and Connectivity

Recognizing that transparency and trust are foundational to successful school-community relationships, Jarrell ISD has embraced new tools to streamline communication.

Parent Square, a digital platform for parent-teacher interaction, allows families to stay up to date with school announcements, student performance, and important dates. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive,” Spinetto says. “It created a direct line between the classroom and home.”

The district also regularly conducts surveys and hosts virtual meetings to accommodate the schedules of commuting families, ensuring that no voice is left out of the decision-making process.

Building for the Future

Jarrell’s explosive population growth—particularly among young families—has required bold infrastructure planning. Over the past four years, every campus in the district has either been built or significantly renovated.

“We work closely with demographers to stay ahead of the curve,” Dr. Hicks explains. “Our job is to plan responsibly, so that students are not overcrowded and teachers have the space and resources they need to thrive.”

The soon-to-open CTE building marks a major milestone in this journey. Designed with input from educators and industry partners alike, it will house programs that prepare students for high-demand careers while strengthening the district’s pipeline of talent.

Investing in Educators

Jarrell ISD understands that great schools begin with great teachers. That’s why the district participates in the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA), a state initiative that rewards highly effective educators with performance-based compensation.

“Through TIA, we’re not just recognizing excellence—we’re also helping retain top talent,” says Buckley. “It’s a win for our teachers and our students.”

Additionally, the district offers targeted support for new educators, including mentoring programs, onboarding workshops, and access to instructional coaches. Aspiring leaders are encouraged to join leadership cohorts that prepare them for future administrative roles.

A District on the Rise

With a clear strategic vision, strong leadership, and deep community ties, Jarrell ISD is proving that public schools can be both innovative and inclusive.

“We’re growing fast, but we’re growing with purpose,” Dr. Hicks reflects. “Our students are at the center of everything we do—and that’s what makes this work so meaningful.”

From state-of-the-art CTE programs to heartfelt community partnerships, Jarrell ISD is more than just a district. It’s a launchpad for futures, a hub of opportunity, and a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together for its kids.

AT A GLANCE:

Name: Jarrell Independent School District

What: An innovative, small town school district with big city opportunities for its students

Where: Texas, USA

Website: https://www.jarrellisd.org/