Parker County Today PCT March 2019 | Page 38

Growing Up In Parker County By Maureen Griffin, Tara Stark Real Estate Group - Keller Williams Realty I f you’re a Parker County parent, you know there’s something special about raising your children here. Families from as far away as California, to as close as Ft. Worth, are moving here, to experience the piece of Amer- icana, that residents describe as “Everything you need, but with a small-town feel.” Centrally located near Inter- state 20, Parker County is home to more than 133-thou- sand people, with nearly 25% being under the age of 18. Tara Stark, owner of Tara Stark Real Estate Group, has helped families discover the joy of living here for more than fifteen years. “The cities and towns of Parker County are a fantas- tic place to raise children! Our schools are wonderful, there’s unlimited opportunity with athletics, dance, music and the arts programs and of course, for our equestrian families, there’s no better place to ride with your best friend.” Stark says there’s a perfect place for every family, “We have planned communities, like The Walsh, that provide child-friendly amenities and proximity to Aledo ISD schools. With so many students active in FFA and 4-H, our land and ranch properties provide the space needed to raise show-quality animals.” Quality Education 36 There are eight independent school districts in Parker County; Aledo, Brock, Garner, Millsap, Peaster, Poolville, Springtown and Weatherford. In addition, six private schools offer classrooms for K-12 th grade. Childcare and pre-school is offered by numerous private entities and churches. If your child wants to stay closer to home after high school, they can continue their education at Weath- erford College. Celebrating 150 years of serving Parker County this year, Weatherford College’s mission is to enrich the lives of the students and communities it serves through innovative, affordable, and accessible learning and cultural opportunities. Parents appreciate the high- quality education at a fraction of the cost of most colleges and universities! The Great Outdoors Remember back to the dog-days of Summer, what was your favorite pastime? Families in Parker County enjoy a plethora of Instagram and Pinterest worthy outdoor adventure spots! Water enthusiasts have several lakes, rivers and tributaries to choose from. Whether you’re into wakeboarding, swimming, fishing or floating with a beverage in hand, the Brazos River, Lakes Weatherford and Mineral Wells, are just a few of the perfect spots. Springtime events, like the “Wildflower Walk” at Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway, offer families a fun, friendly and healthy opportunity to enjoy our beautiful scenery and wildlife. Healthcare Even healthy kids need the care of a great family physi- cian. School athletics require physicals and childhood fun can sometimes result in sprains & strains. Parker County healthcare is world-class quality. Medical City Weatherford and Texas Health Neighborhood Care & Wellness Willow Park are two of the larger facilities providing general, specialized and emergency healthcare. In addition, numerous private practices, imaging centers and public clinics serve thousands yearly. The Healthy Children Coalition for Parker County (HCPC) has a vision for our residents – Parker County, where families choose healthy and active lives. The organization is one of many dedicated to healthier kids and healthier families, in our community. Commitment of Caring If we compiled a list of every philanthropic organization that serves the residents of Parker County, there’d be no space to share all the other quality of life highlights. Boasting is not becoming of a humble spirit, but when it comes to recognizing a community so full of givers, we’re not going to hold back. Children and families of all ages, backgrounds, cultures and socio-economic statuses are diligently served by generous souls. Areas of service include healthcare, education, safety, women and children services, housing, the arts, public service, animal welfare, environmental preservation and more. In fact, as of November 3, 2018, there were 773 registered not-for-profit organizations in Parker County, according to taxexemptworld.com. If you’re interested in serving, we’re sure there’s an area of interest for your family to join.