Read Q&A with board vice president Sarah McMurrough
January is School Board Recognition Month, and our trustees are more than worthy of the honor. Our board members volunteer their time and expertise to guide the direction of Arlington ISD, investing in our entire community’s future.
Today, we’re catching up with board vice president Sarah McMurrough. The former Arlington ISD teacher went to school here and is now an Arlington ISD mom. She’s been on the board since 2021.
What are you most excited about for the district as we enter 2026?
Our school district is making so much positive progress in many areas, so it’s difficult to narrow it down to one thing! I’m particularly looking forward to the finalization/adoption of a new school district vision statement and strategic plan. We are one AISD community, and it’s important that we are all calibrated around the same goals and priorities so we can work together as a unit to give our children the very best educational experience!
Reflect on a moment from this past year that reminded you why you serve on the Arlington ISD Board of Trustees.
Cheering on each and every graduating senior in the Class of 2025 was truly special. This graduating class earned tens of millions in scholarships, set out to pursue multiple pathways (college, career, and military), and really stepped into their future with pride and purpose. It is humbling to know that I was part of their journey, and it reminds me to always make decisions based on what I believe is best for kids.
Look ahead to 2026 and highlight one hope or priority you are excited to support as a trustee.
We recently received a report from Human Resources on potential plans for a new, affordable employee childcare option for our Arlington ISD staff, and I will do all I can to support this move. Universal pre-K 4 for all was a huge win for our community just over three years ago, and in addition to this, our hardworking, dedicated staff deserve affordable childcare in a convenient, loving setting for their 0-3-year-old children as they work to help the children of our school district learn and thrive.
What is your favorite City of Arlington annual festival/parade/tradition?
I always love the 4th of July Parade! We’re out of school for summer, so it’s great to reconnect with so many AISD folks and celebrate America’s birthday with our community at large! Now if we could just catch a little break from that July heat …
Tell us about a campus tradition, event, or student activity you secretly look forward to every year.
I most enjoy campus visits that occur for no particular reason or occasion other than just to see the greatness happening in and around classrooms! Each of our schools is uniquely special and has its own story. As a trustee, I believe it is one of my responsibilities to learn and know the stories! I love being visible for our staff and students while lending a listening ear. As challenges continue to present themselves in the world of public education, the remarkable innovation and strong commitment to all children remain constant here in Arlington ISD. As a trustee, parent, and fellow educator, there is nothing more inspiring to me than that!