Students in Round Rock ISD saw significant improvement on end-of-course exams administered for Algebra, English, Biology and U.S. History earlier this spring.

Results were released by the Texas Education Agency on June 10. Results show growth statewide in the number of students meeting grade level expectations across content areas.

The local impact: Students saw year-to-year improvement in scores for four of five exams administered. 

What they're saying: "Our mentality is we want every student to grow," said Natalie Nichols, RRISD's chief of schools and innovation. "It does not matter if you're a 'did not meet,' 'approaches,' 'meets' or 'masters.' Every student deserves to grow. That's the promise we make to our community."

The Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization dedicated about $131 million in federal funding for nine road projects and one trail project in Williamson County, according to a June 12 county news release.

Projects include the construction of an overpass at the intersection of Chandler Road and FM 1660 in Hutto, as well as widening Red Bud Lane from two to five lanes from Gattis School Road to Heatherwilde Boulevard in Round Rock.

What they’re saying: “I am grateful the CAMPO board sees the need in our fast-growing county for continued improvements to our transportation system, and I congratulate [Precinct 2] Commissioner [Cynthia] Long for securing this federal funding through CAMPO for Williamson County,” Williamson County Judge Steve Snell said in the release.

How it works: CAMPO selected projects to receive funding from the 2028-31 open call for projects. The evaluation process includes independent reviewers weighing risk assessment, project readiness and the cost-benefit analysis, according to the release.

Williamson County commissioners will appoint a new tax assessor-collector for the county following the retirement of Larry Gaddes.

The county is currently accepting applications for the position.

What happened: Commissioners accepted Gaddes’ resignation at a June 9 meeting, after nine years with the county. He is one of nine tax assessor-collectors in Texas to earn the designation of certified tax administrator, according to county documents.

Gaddes will take on a new role as deputy executive director of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, according to a county news release.

How it works: The commissioners will interview candidates and appoint a new person to fill the role until the November 2026 election. Those interested in the role can apply by sending a resume and qualifications to [email protected].

The executive committees of the local Democratic and Republican parties will vote to nominate an individual to place on the November ballot. Voters will then decide on a new Williamson County tax assessor-collector who will serve a term until Dec. 31, 2028.

Check out some of the most-read stories from the Austin area June 15-18. 

1. The Lodge Card Club reopens in Round Rock

2. Hays County denies agreement with 340-acre development over Edwards Aquifer recharge zone

3. Sweet Lemon Kitchen owner brings cafe to Georgetown's new entertainment district

4. 5 things to know: Bastrop data centers, SpaceX incentives and more

5. Austin Public Library postpones reopening, closure of 2 branches

6. Corral Prime Meat Market now open in New Braunfels