Clear Creek ISD officials are looking to launch a fully virtual program through a partnership with Texas Tech University in fall 2026.

The partnership will be through the university's Texas Tech K-12 program, which is an accredited and approved provider by the Texas Education Agency that offers various programs, including full-time diplomas, advanced placement and dual credit options, and credit by exam options, among others.

What you need to know: Officials clarified the initiative is strictly a “virtual program”—not a separate virtual school. It allows students to access full-time online instruction through a partnership with Texas Tech while remaining enrolled in CCISD, Superintendent Karen Engle said.

Assessing the need: The initiative will be used to target students that are living within CCISD boundaries, but are not attending CCISD schools due to being enrolled in other virtual programs, officials said.

It’s not too late to get a family picture with Santa. Here are six events where Santa will be present for holiday fun and photo opportunities. 

Breakfast with Santa: Enjoy pancakes, holiday festivities, giveaways and photos with Santa during the breakfast at Hometown Heroes Park. Registration is required. 

• Dec. 13, 8:30-10:30 a.m.
• $20-$40 (per person), free (children ages 2 and under)
• 1001 E. League City Parkway, League City

Christmas in the Park: Catch a screening of "Shrek The Halls" on the lawn, listen to live music and enjoy a visit from Santa at the festive event. 

• Dec. 13, 5-9 p.m. 
• Free (admission)
• 17100 N. Texas Ave., Webster

Following the Dec. 8 deadline to file for a place on the 2026 primary ballots, 26 candidates filed to run across seven races in Harris County ahead of the March primary elections.

The big picture: Six races are being contested by Democratic and Republican candidates across the March primary elections. During the primary, voters will select the Democratic and Republican party nominees who will then appear on the November 2026 general election alongside any independent or other party candidates. The last day for candidates to file to run in the primary elections was Dec. 8, per the Texas Secretary of State's website.

What else? The deadline to register to vote in the 2026 primary elections is Feb. 2, with early voting starting Feb. 17 and election day March 3.