A new school year is right around the corner and teachers and administrators are already working around the clock to prepare their coursework, classrooms, and schools. For most educators, if not all, school is now a year round event with all of the seminars, workshops and continuing education courses that aim to improve their teaching skills and knowledge. We are very fortunate to have wonderful schools and teachers in Round Rock ISD today which is a direct result of the investments the school district and community has been making for years. (more…)

Summer in Texas brings many different images and thoughts to people. Whether it’s hiking, bike riding, swimming pools or enjoying a Round Rock Express baseball game, two things remain in the back of our mind – the heat and high electric bills. (more…)

With Spring underway, many families are getting ready for the annual tradition of Spring Cleaning. Some use this as an opportunity do a deep cleaning of the home’s interior while others are ready to get out in the garden and yard to plant new flowers and shrubs. While you are showing off your green thumb outside, you can now make the inside green too. (more…)

Once a decade, as required by the United States Constitution, the Census Bureau works to count every individual living in America. While this process can seem burdensome, it is critically important to every level of government, from federal and state agencies all the way down to your cities and school districts. With the rapid rate in which Williamson County has grown over the past decade, it is up to each one of us to ensure that our community receives the funding we deserve to continue providing services and opportunities throughout the county. (more…)

February is the shortest month of the year, yet it is deep in meaning and recognition. This month we take time to recognize Black History Month and the significant affect African Americans have had on our lives. Black History Month is a wonderful opportunity to reflect upon the impact and numerous contributions of African Americans. From science and technology to literature and entertainment, we not only experience the works and creations of influential African Americans, but we also enjoy many of the rights and freedoms we take for granted today. In fact, the creativity and accomplishments of one local legend sparked what we know today as steer wrestling. (more…)

As the school semester gets under way for local students, many high school seniors are beginning to make education and career decisions that will affect their future. These students have an unprecedented number of post-graduation options ranging from a multitude of higher education opportunities, technical school or training, military service and others. (more…)

The recent debate and discussion over health care has significantly increased awareness about issues facing our current health care system. While there has been a great deal of disagreement on what reforms should be enacted, one area that everyone has embraced is the need for expanded educational awareness and preventative treatment. Taking the necessary steps to diagnose and treat patients early can cut down on hospital visits and improve the health of our communities and nation. (more…)

The 81st Legislative Session was notably marked by the economic downturn affecting Texas, as well as the entire nation. Fortunately, Texas was in a better position than most states as we prepared a budget for state agencies and programs for the coming biennium. A large reason behind Texas’ success is our business community, and especially our small businesses. Small businesses truly are the backbone of our local, state and national economy due to their leadership, innovation and, most notably, because they create two-thirds of all new jobs in our communities. (more…)

The beginning of a new school year is a time filled with excitement, anticipation, and nervous energy for many students and their parents. As the former president of Round Rock ISD and a parent of two, I recall fondly the hustle and bustle of families at the local shops preparing for the coming year. I will always remember getting my son and daughter ready for school by going through a checklist of school supplies, forms to fill out, and teachers to meet. Now as the first day of a new school year approaches, I see other parents doing the same things and checking off items on the same list. (more…)

The City of Round Rock’s roots go back more than 150 years and the town might never have been settled if it were not for the city’s namesake. The round rock was a distinctive marker for transportation then as it indicated a low-water crossing that allowed wagons and cattle to cross. Just as transportation was a factor in the formation of the city, it is also a vital factor in the future growth and development of Round Rock. (more…)