Jarrell ISD Monday Memo
December 18, 2023
Cougars,
We blinked, and here we are, two weeks from the beginning of 2024. Looking back on 2023, both the spring and fall semesters, we have a lot of reasons to celebrate. We're proud to share that we've seen a significant increase in student achievement. Through dedication and effort, we were able to achieve remarkable results. We are honored to receive academic, fine arts, and athletics awards for our students. It's a testament to the time and energy our teachers and students invested in learning and practicing.
Here are some highlights in all areas of the district:
This fall, grades 3 - 8 had more students gain "Mastery" of the Reading assessment on the STAAR Fall Interims. Some gains are double digits.
Since 2019, the number of JHS students completing College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) courses has increased by 51%.
In the spring, the Class of 2023 earned more than $2 million in scholarships. That is a record for Jarrell High School.
UIL District for JHS Theatre One Act and student individual awards.
UIL Sweepstakes Awards for the Marching Band.
The fishing team competed in the International Fishing Competition in Wisconsin.
The Middle School and High School Radio Broadcasting teams earned a spot at the Tarleton State University Leadership Development Event Invitational Contest.
21 FFA students competed at the Williamson County Livestock Show and won over twenty top ten awards.
10 Ag Mechanic students received a combined $12,000 in scholarships after competing in a statewide welding series.
The district earned a Superior Rating and was awarded an "A" by the prestigious School Financial Integrity Ratings System of Texas (FIRST) for financial accountability to taxpayers.
The district earned an "A" from the Texas Education Agency's security audit. The agency was impressed by our security enhancements, protocols, and requirements.
The 2023 Bond passed with 75% voter approval. One of the highest voter support in Williamson County.
The district is ahead of schedule and within budget for projects from the 2021 Bond. This year alone, the district saved hundreds of thousands of dollars on concrete costs and technology.
The district saved $750,000 in interest by being fiscally responsible in bond sales.
Created the Jarrell ISD Police department with staffed police officers at each campus and a police dog.
Increased teacher pay 15.5% in three years, added paid health insurance for all employees, increased stipends, and increased pay for hourly employees.
Achievements and improvements are measured in different ways and at varying paces. Students' ability to stay organized, stay on task, and manage their time wisely is essential to their personal growth.
Teachers and staff have worked countless hours this year to ensure learning goals are met, student-athletes succeed, and fine art students sharpen their craft. Looking back at the 2023 calendar year, our students are moving in the right direction. It's been a fantastic year, and we are excited to continue building that momentum in 2024.
Have a safe holiday season, and Happy New Year!
Jarrell Education Foundation
The Jarrell Education Foundation awards grants to promote educational excellence and fund imaginative and progressive teaching initiatives that promote student achievement. To learn more about the foundation, including how to volunteer or donate, visit the Jarrell Education Foundation website.