As superintendent of Shepherd ISD, I see daily the incredible potential our schools hold — not just for our students but our entire community. Schools are the heart of any small town, and the success of our district depends not only on the dedication of our educators but also on the active participation of our families and community members.
Community engagement and parental involvement are more than educational buzzwords. They are the foundation for a thriving, transparent, and trusted school system. Here’s why your involvement matters and how we can work together to strengthen Shepherd ISD.
Building bridges of communication
Transparency starts with communication. Trust follows naturally when schools and communities openly share goals, challenges, and successes. Shepherd ISD is committed to keeping you informed through regular updates, board meetings, or special events. But communication is a two-way street. Your feedback — whether through surveys, parent-teacher conferences, or community forums — helps us understand your needs and refine our approach.
Parental involvement: A key to student success
Research shows that students achieve more when parents are involved in their child’s education. They earn higher grades, have better attendance, and are more likely to pursue higher education. At Shepherd ISD, we invite parents to participate in all aspects of their child’s learning journey. Whether attending school events, volunteering in classrooms, or supporting extracurricular activities, your presence makes a profound difference.
Community support: The backbone of our schools
Shepherd ISD belongs to all of us, and the broader community plays a vital role in shaping our district’s future. From mentoring programs to local business partnerships, every effort counts. When our students see their community investing in their education, it inspires them to aim higher and dream bigger.
A vision for the future
As we look ahead, Shepherd ISD is focused on fostering an environment of trust and collaboration. We are committed to providing high-quality education but can’t do it alone. Your involvement ensures we remain accountable and aligned with Shepherd’s values and aspirations.
I encourage each of you to engage with our schools. Attend a sporting event, volunteer for a program, or simply connect with your child’s teacher. Together, we can create a district that reflects the best of what Shepherd has to offer — a district where every student has the opportunity to thrive, and every voice is heard.
Let’s build the future of Shepherd ISD together. Thank you for being part of this journey.
Dr. Jason Hewitt is Superintendent of Shepherd Independent School District.
