History & Facts

Our School Namesake

founder

Mary Jo Sheppard (1925 - 2016), was born in Erath County, Texas. She was the third of nine children born to John and Mable Conaster. Sheppard attended Lingleville schools and graduated from high school in 1943. She loved school and all of her teachers so much that she always knew she would become a teacher. "I had some really good teachers who I respected very much and I wanted to be just like them," said Sheppard.

Sheppard began college 14 years after she graduated from high school. She attended Arlington State College (now UT-Arlington) before transferring to Texas Christian University and graduating with a bachelor's of science in physical education with a minor in biology. In 1962, Sheppard was hired by the Mansfield ISD to teach physical education and coach girls' basketball. She spent her entire career in the District where she was the only girls' coach until 1971.

Sheppard started the track, volleyball and golf teams in the District. During her career at MISD, Sheppard coached 29 Tigerette Basketball All District players.

She was a member of the Texas High School Girls Coaches Association and the State Board of Directors for Girls Coaches. She married Rex Sheppard in 1948 and has one son, Rex Gerald.

Sheppard retired from teaching in 1979, but remained active in District functions. Sheppard only missed two Lady Tiger Basketball home games in 40 years.

School Facts

School Mascot: Colt
School Colors: Black, White, Red
Grades Taught: Pre-Kindergarten through 4th grade
Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:22

Special Programs

FALS/FALS - B
Special Education
ESL
Co-Teach

Mission Statement

The mission of Mary Jo Sheppard is to invest in the future of ALL students by fostering high academic and social expectations.
 

Our Motto

Strong Character Builds Caring Colts

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