Sarah Pyle Shackelford has been an educator for 24 years and a cherished part of The Learning Tree community since 2010. Over the years, she has taught every age group, served as an administrator and board member, and experienced the school as a parent, giving her a deep and well-rounded understanding of what makes The Learning Tree so special.

Born and raised in Georgetown, Sarah brings both hometown pride and a lifelong passion for early childhood education to her leadership. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Houston–Clear Lake and a Master’s degree in Education from Texas State University. A member of First United Methodist Church since 1998, Sarah is deeply connected to the faith community that has supported and shaped The Learning Tree since its beginning. She has played a vital role in preserving our play-based philosophy, ensuring that children learn through exploration, imagination, and joy.

Outside of school, Sarah is married to her husband, Ronan, and together they have three children — twin boys (8) and a daughter (12). She’s a Disney lover, an avid gardener, and a collector of children’s books who finds inspiration in the magic and curiosity of childhood.

With her warmth, creativity, and years of experience, Sarah leads The Learning Tree with heart and dedication, continuing to make it a place where children love to learn and families love to belong.