Jarrell Montessori School STATE OF THE CITY Q&A with Jarrell Leadership
ON THE COVER
A joyful welcome! Jarrell Montessori School celebrates opening day June 2, inviting little learners to explore, play, and grow.
Photo courtesy Jarrell Montessori
TEXAS SIT-REP The Future of Public and Higher Education
WORTH THE DRIVE
Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center
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JARRELL MONTESSORI
Offering academic and loving care of children from infancy to 5 years old. Jarrell Montessori... Where Families Belong!
Shannon Black knows well the struggle parents face when dropping their kids off at school.
“Imagine taking your heart out of your chest and handing it to someone else to care for all day,” she says, remembering the search to find childcare after she and her husband moved with their young son to Austin. It’s even harder, she says, when parents aren’t able to find a school they feel is the right fit for their child. Both challenges led her to convert a house she leased in Round Rock into a Montessori school, bringing her vision of nurturing, child-centered education to life.
Shannon’s first Montessori venture in Round Rock flourished and grew into two schools but, after 16 years, the weight of the pandemic prompted her to sell her business and take a much-needed break. She directed her energy toward volunteering with SCORE, a nonprofit that provides mentorship and training to small business owners. Yet, the pull to return to education was strong, and she realized how much she missed the work of creating educational sanctuaries for families. She reached out to Laura FastHorse, director of Shannon’s former school, to see if she would be willing to partner once again.
They decided to open a Montessori school in Jarrell, this time working together as business partners— Laura running the day-to-day operations and Shannon behind the scenes.
HEART FOR JARRELL’S CHILDREN
For Shannon, the decision to open a school in Jarrell was a simple one. With the area’s rapid growth, she found existing childcare centers full, leaving many parents facing lengthy commutes to find care. “We identified four areas in the Austin metro, and Jarrell had the greatest need,” Shannon says, adding she also plans to bring her Montessori school experience to other growing communities like Liberty Hill, Kyle, and Bastrop. “Families are moving here for affordability—many did so during COVID when remote work opened new doors—but then they realized childcare isn’t available here.” Many parents have repeated that story, often driving to Georgetown just to drop off their kids at daycare. It’s one of the big reasons Shannon is excited to open Jarrell Montessori. “We’re offering a high-quality option right here in town. There are so many people who are excited they won’t have to make that drive anymore.”
MONTESSORI MISSION
At the heart of Jarrell Montessori is the Montessori method—a child-centered approach that promotes independence, self-direction, and respect for the environment. The curriculum is designed not just to educate but to prepare children for life. “If we can work with a child from 3 years old to elementary school, provided there are no learning disabilities, they’ll be reading at a second-grade level and adding and subtracting four-digit numbers entering kindergarten,” Shannon says. “It’s incredible what kids are able to accomplish in a Montessori preschool environment.”
The school’s motto, Where Families Belong, reflects Shannon’s commitment to creating a community that feels like a second home. It’s not just about education—it’s about creating a space where families feel comfortable and supported. “Entrusting someone else with your child is difficult. I want parents to feel comfortable dropping them off and also that they’re part of a bigger family, knowing their child is safe and getting an education from people who truly care for them.”
WELCOME TO JARRELL MONTESSORI
As the school gears up for its opening June 2, Shannon and Laura are inviting families to experience the school firsthand during pre-enrollment tours. The school will host a free community carnival 10am to noon on May 17, during which visitors can enjoy snow cones, a petting zoo, train rides, bounce houses, and a chance to meet the team behind the school.
Scan the code to learn more and register for a pre-enrollment tour at JarrellMontessori.com.
Jarrell Montessori
Jarrell City council members were invited to answer five questions about their priorities and vision for the city. Following are responses from the three who participated.
Tanya Clawson
Daniel Klepac
Jarrell State of
ONE MAJOR CHANGE/IMPROVEMENT
YOU HOPE TO MAKE THIS YEAR?
Allen: I feel the city council has already accomplished improvements by appointing new members to the EDC and Planning & Zoning Committee. With new members, comes new vision and that's what the city needs to move forward.
Clawson: One improvement I hope to accomplish is securing a city manager who will continue to lead our city with fiscal responsibility and ensure that we maintain a full staff.
Klepac: I would like to see the street in front of the fire station rebuilt to handle the weight of the fire trucks when they exit and return to the station.
WHAT CITY ISSUE/INITIATIVE DO YOU FEEL MOST PERSONALLY CONNECTED TO —HOW ARE YOU WORKING TO ADDRESS IT OR HELP?
Allen: Being a newly elected council member, I have yet to connect myself to any particular city issue or initiative.
Clawson: Regarding city matters, I am most connected to our infrastructure. I intend to continue my attendance at relevant meetings whenever possible, to help in securing enduring solutions.
Klepac: Having adequate water for our citizens. I want to make sure we control growth and not run out of our most precious resource. I have always been vocal about our capacity to provide and will continue to do so as other developments request to build here.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR THE CITY’S ECONOMIC GROWTH?
Allen: The economic growth of Jarrell is vital to sustain viability. Attracting new businesses to our city is key in developing a city where we don't have to go to Georgetown for anything, making Jarrell a "one-stop shop."
Clawson: My vision for economic growth involves attracting more employment and retail opportunities for our citizens, which, in turn, should augment our sales tax revenue. My current focus is on ensuring that the city remains realistic with the infrastructural opportunities that we currently have to prevent over promising and under delivering.
Klepac: I would like to see a controlled growth with a mix of commercial, retail, and new homes. We need businesses here to provide employment instead of our citizens having to seek employment in surrounding cities.
GIVEN UNLIMITED RESOURCES, WHAT ONE PROJECT/INITIATIVE WOULD YOU IMPLEMENT TODAY?
Allen: My one project would be repairing/ renewing all our roads. Infrastructure needs improvement to support our growth as a community.
Clawson: I would immediately focus on enhancing accessibility within Jarrell. A significant number of our residents are frequently traveling to avail themselves of healthcare, recreation, employment, and various essential amenities.
Klepac: I would love to rebuild every street in Old Town to handle the traffic that we see today and include water drainage.
WHAT ARE THE TOP THREE QUALITIES OR CHARACTERISTICS YOU ARE LOOKING FOR IN THE NEXT CITY MANAGER?
Allen: I am looking for someone with experience who is able to make decisions with confidence and be a good team leader.
Clawson: In my opinion: strong leadership, ethical conduct, and fiscal responsibility. These qualities will ensure that the needs of our city and its citizens are effectively met.
Klepac: Knowledge, drive, and professionalism!
Lori Allen
the City 2025
At the Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon in March, Mayor Patrick Sherek shared a snapshot of where Jarrell stands and where it’s headed during his State of the City speech. Afterward, My Jarrell followed up with the mayor to get a closer look at what’s next for the community—from big-picture growth to day-to-day challenges.
You referenced three economic development initiatives currently underway—the Labatt project, Auto Zone, and a mixed-use development. Could you elaborate on the strategies the city is employing to attract new businesses?
Mayor Sherek: To attract new businesses like Labatt, Jarrell uses targeted incentive tools such as Chapter 312 tax abatements, Chapter 380 performance agreements tied to job creation and investment milestones, infrastructure cost-sharing agreements, and expedited development review processes. These incentives are carefully structured to ensure real public benefits, such as new jobs, infrastructure improvements, and expanded tax revenue, while minimizing financial risks to Jarrell and its residents. We also work with Retail Coach, a company that connects expanding businesses with new areas. It is essential for the city to collaborate with businesses and developers to build a strong foundation for future growth.
You said the Labatt project is expected to create approximately 100 jobs upon completion. How will a project of this scale impact the Jarrell economy?
Mayor Sherek: Bringing in good jobs is key to making our community stronger and more self-sustaining. Right now, many residents commute
outside of Jarrell for work, which means the city and businesses here are losing that potential revenue. The Labatt project will help change that by offering around 100 new jobs here in town—a big step toward keeping our workforce local. Those jobs mean more people will be able to shop, eat, and do business in Jarrell, which helps local businesses thrive. We hope this creates a ripple effect as we work to attract more companies to set up shop here. In the end, it’s not just about jobs; it’s about building a community where people can live, work, and raise their families without needing to travel far for a good job.
You spoke about a water deal that would provide water for Jarrell for the next 5-10 years. Could you elaborate on that?
Mayor Sherek: This water agreement would provide approximately 5 million gallons of water per day to support around 15,000 homes. This deal will ensure we can meet our current water needs, however, with the rapid growth, the city will continue exploring additional water sources to plan for future growth and sustainability.
You said Williamson County gave the City money from an ARPA grant to be used for a waterline on the east side. Can you share where and how far the waterline will extend? Is this waterline connecting to a new water source or just furthering the reach of the current water sources?
Mayor Sherek: The City of Jarrell was awarded a $14 million ARPA grant from the county to fund construction of a 16-inch transmission waterline, approximately 6.4 miles in length, extending from CR 303 to CR 310, generally following a route along FM 1105, CR 375, and CR 314. This project will use the water from Lonestar Regional Water Authority and, in the future, connect to our current system providing services to the south. When completed, it will enhance the city’s water infrastructure and service capacity, ensuring sustainable support for current needs and future growth.
by Ann Marie Kennon
Building Texas’ Public and Higher Education Future
IN THE NEWS
Last month, the Texas Legislature made significant moves on public and higher education policy—decisions that will shape how Texas students learn, how teachers are compensated, and how institutions across the state collaborate for a smarter, stronger future.
SCHOOL VOUCHERS AND FUNDING
On April 17, the Texas House passed Senate Bill 2 (SB 2), establishing a $1 billion Education Savings Account (ESA) program. For the first time since 1957, the House voted in favor of redirecting public funds for private education through ESAs.
The bill passed 86–61 and offers $10,000 annually to eligible students for private school tuition and related expenses—up to $30,000 for students with disabilities. Children of active-duty military members were added to the eligibility list via amendment.
To ensure oversight, the House version includes accountability measures such as requiring participating private schools to be accredited for at least two years. Governor Greg Abbott, who championed the initiative, hailed the vote as a “historic victory.”
At the same time, the House passed House Bill 2 (HB 2), a sweeping school finance package that infuses more than $7.7 billion into Texas public education—the largest increase in state history.
The Texas House Plan for School Finance
Rep. Terry Wilson calls HB 2 a critical investment. “People are asking if we’re fully funding public education. The answer is yes—and we’re structuring the budget around that commitment,” he said. Here’s what’s included:
$3 billion to raise per-student spending and increase teacher pay
$1 billion in boosted funding for rural and mid-sized schools
$1.5 billion in new special education resources
$1.5 billion in targeted investments for Pre-K, bilingual education, and achievement gap reduction
$750 million in incentive pay for high-performing teachers
The bill increases the state’s Basic Allotment (BA)—the per-student funding benchmark—to $6,555, a $395 increase. For the first time, that number is tied to the growth of property values, allowing public education and teacher pay to rise automatically in future budgets while reducing pressure on local taxes.
HB 2 also mandates that 40 percent of the BA increase go directly to teacher pay. Priority goes to those with 10 or more years in the classroom, followed by educators with at least five years’ experience.
To protect against enrollment declines, the bill guarantees that schools receive 95 percent of their prior year’s funding and ensures every district gets at least a $200-per-student increase. It also enhances funding for special education transportation and resources, Pre-K expansion, extended school year programs, and streamlines teacher certifications.
CURRICULUM OVERSIGHT AND GOVERNANCE
Meanwhile, in higher education, the Senate approved SB 37—a bill that shifts how public university curricula are reviewed and monitored. Governing boards would be required to review core curricula every five years, ensuring they prepare students for civic and professional life and avoid content perceived as promoting ideological bias or distorting historical events. The bill also allows individuals to file complaints that could lead to funding cuts—raising concerns about academic freedom and faculty self-censorship.
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
Where Wildflower Wonders Await
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Offers Blooming Summer Escape
Nestled less than an hour’s drive from Jarrell, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin offers a blooming oasis where nature, art, and science flourish together. As the official botanic garden and arboretum of Texas, the Wildflower Center is a love letter to native plants, outdoor wonders, and the enduring legacy of one of Texas’ most iconic first ladies.
LIVING LEGACY
Founded in 1982 by Lady Bird Johnson and actress Helen Hayes, the Wildflower Center was born out of a shared vision to restore native landscapes and encourage the conservation of America’s botanical heritage. Known for her lifelong advocacy of natural beauty and environmental stewardship, Lady Bird once said, “Where flowers bloom, so does hope.” That spirit pulses through every garden bed and limestone trail here.
Today, the center is part of The University of Texas at Austin and serves as a hub for research, sustainable landscaping, and public education – all while maintaining the warm, inviting feel of a walk through the Texas Hill Country.
NATURE’S PLAYGROUND: GARDEN FOR ALL AGES
Spanning more than 284 acres, the Wildflower Center invites visitors into a thoughtfully designed sanctuary that blends natural beauty with education and exploration. Winding trails beckon walkers, strollers, and wildlife watchers. Garden spaces change with the seasons, bursting into color in the spring with bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes,
and other native blooms. Summer brings butterflies. Fall? Golden grasses and seed pods that dance in the breeze.
But what makes the center truly shine is how accessible and interactive it is for guests of all ages. The Luci and Ian Family Garden is a standout feature – a nature-inspired playscape where kids can balance on giant tree stumps, climb a sprawling net structure, or make a splash at the creek. Designed to connect children to the land through play, it is both a parent’s delight and a child’s dream.
ART MEETS EARTH
In true Austin fashion, the Wildflower Center doesn’t shy away from creativity. Sculptures dot the grounds, seamlessly integrated into natural spaces. Seasonal exhibits often bring a sense of wonder – from largescale works by local artists to luminous installations that transform the garden at night.
Even the architecture is thoughtfully woven into the land. Limestone walls, green roofs, and rainwater-harvesting features not only celebrate Texas’ natural resources but also model how sustainability can look beautiful.
EVENTS IN BLOOM
There’s always something happening at the Wildflower Center, and spring and summer are particularly vibrant times to visit. Now through May 13, Tuesday Twilights invites guests to enjoy the gardens after hours with live music, local food and drinks, and that golden-hour magic the Hill Country does best. It’s a relaxing midweek outing, perfect for date nights or laid-back family evenings.
Throughout the year, the center also offers immersive experiences that blend nature and wellness – from outdoor yoga and forest bathing sessions to seasonal art exhibits and hands-on garden walks. Looking ahead to summer, Lady Bird Day in July celebrates the legacy of the center’s visionary founder with free admission, special activities, and sweet lemon square treats in true Texas style.
WHEN YOU GO
The center is open year-round from 9am to 5pm each day, with extended evening hours during special events. Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for youth ages 5-17, and $13 for seniors. Children 4 and under get in free, and memberships are available for frequent visitors.
Lady Bird Johnson was born Claudia Alta Taylor on December 22, 1912, in Karnack, Texas. From a very early age, she was nicknamed “Lady Bird”—a name that stuck with her for the rest of her life.
PRO TIP: Visit early in the day for the best light, smaller crowds, and cooler temperatures. Bring a reusable water bottle, wear comfy shoes, and don’t forget your camera–there is beauty around every bend.
Scan the code to learn more about the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
4801 La Crosse Ave., Austin
When she was a baby, a family nursemaid said she was “pretty as a lady bird" (an old-fashioned Southern term for a ladybug). The nickname caught on instantly, and even though her given name was Claudia, almost everyone called her Lady Bird from then on.
She reportedly never liked the name “Claudia” very much anyway, and once said: “A lady bird is a lovely, genteel little insect—and I guess that’s better than being called a June bug.”
Even official records, documents, and the press referred to her as Lady Bird Johnson after she married Lyndon B. Johnson in 1934.
So while “Lady Bird” sounds like it could be aristocratic or symbolic, it was really just a childhood nickname born out of affection... and a bug.
WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”?
by Linda A. Thornton
And Miles and Miles of Fertile Farms
Texas stands proudly as the leading agricultural state in the nation. According to the Texas Department of Agriculture, it ranks first in the nation in the number of farms and ranches, with 230,662 sprawled over 125.5 million acres.
OLD MACDONALD HAD A FARM…OR DID HE?
Did you know that all ranches are farms, but not all farms are ranches?
A farm is any land that is cultivated in some way to produce goods. It can be a small farm that grows just enough for a family or an industrialized dairy farm.
A ranch is a specific type of farm that primarily focuses on breeding, raising, and selling livestock.
CULTIVATING THE FARMING CULTURE
Agriculture is defined as the science of farming. The average Texas farm is 544 acres and many Texas farms have been family-run for generations.
Texas is the major producer of cotton, corn, feed grains, rice, wheat, peanuts, sunflowers, and sugarcane. It is also the leading producer of cattle, sheep, goats and horses. Niche farming, such as growing heirloom tomatoes or raising exotic chickens - has become a lucrative farming concept.
SO…WHAT DOES TEXAS SOW?
The diversity of Texas’ land is a significant factor in its agriculture prominence:
Citrus and sugarcane: Rio Grande Valley
Forestry and hay production: East Texas
Sheep and goats: West Texas
Cotton and orchards: South Texas
In most years since 1880, Texas has ranked as the top cultivator of cotton in the U.S.
It’s also a major producer of cattle, sheep, and goats.
WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?
Watermelon production ranks top in the country, with carrots and pumpkins second.
Texas stands out as the recognized leader in cattle ranching. With the number of head of cattle in the U.S. totaling 86.6 million, the Texas Farm Bureau cites the top 13 states comprise 66 percent. Texas alone accounts for 14 percent, leading the country with its 12.2 million heads.
KING RANCH KINGSVILLE, TEXAS
825,000 acres — more land than the state of Rhode Island.
Largest ranch in Texas and one of the largest, privately owned in the world.
Captain Richard King purchased the land in 1853. Working to improve breeding processes, he produced the finest cattle breeds, quarter horses, and champion thoroughbreds.
The ranch is involved in cattle, farming, and producing luxury leather goods. They offer recreational hunting, a museum, a retail store, tours, and special events.
WHY TEXAS REIGNS IN RANCHING
Leads the nation in beef cattle production.
Vast lands provide ample cattle grazing.
Long growing seasons and relatively mild winters make year-round ranching possible.
Well-developed infrastructure supports the industry.
Texas celebrates a long tradition of cattle ranching.
ROUNDUP OF RENOWNED RANCHES
WAGGONER RANCH VERNON, TEXAS
Historic, and the largest ranch, within one fence, in the United States.
One of the ranch's lakes provides water for the entire city of Wichita Falls, Texas.
Daniel Waggoner purchased the land in 1852 and began his successful business of raising beef cattle, horses, crops and oil production.
In 2014, the 520,000+ acre ranch was sold for $725 million to Walmart heiress Ann Walton and her husband.
SOUTHFORK RANCH PARKER, TEXAS
The Duncan family never expected their 6,000-square-foot mansion on 200 acres would be chosen as the site of the popular TV show “Dallas,” which ran from 1978–1991.
Still in syndication, the show’s popularity made it difficult for the family to continue to live there. Today, “The World’s Most Famous Ranch” offers tours, special events, catering facilities, and accommodations.
TEXAS WOOL PRODUCERS KNIT TOGETHER TO SAVE A VOLATILE INDUSTRY
Spanish soldiers and missionaries introduced the first sheep and goats to Texas in the early 1700s.
Though wool production totaled 1.2 million pounds in 2024, Texas producers have faced a downturn in business, due to less expensive synthetic materials, changing fashion trends, and the complicated milling process.
Nevertheless, producers are confident its unique properties will sustain wool’s longevity:
flame retardant
absorbent fiber can keep you warm or cool
anti-microbial properties make it a natural deodorant
extremely strong and won’t rip easily
stain resistant and anti-static
natural untreated wool, is thought to amplify the body’s natural frequency, improve circulation, regulate temperature, and even promote healing or calmness.
• 535 Town Center Loop • Jarrell brent.tidwell@anchoredinsurance.com staff@anchoredinsurance.com
