Bastrop ISD administrators are moving forward with a turnaround plan for Cedar Creek Middle School, after the campus received an "F" in the state's 2024-25 accountability ratings. 

What you need to know: Trustees approved the turnaround plan created by administrators for the campus, which serves sixth through eighth grade, in a Nov. 18 board meeting. 

A presentation from administration outlined the plan to improve student performance in math and reading, with the goal of reaching a "C" as required by the Texas Education Agency, campus Principal Riza Cooper said, although her personal goal is a "B."

When Brittany and Kyle Stinson said their wedding vows in 2022, they never imagined they’d later be opening a bar.

Now, their newfound dream, realized after getting married on Brittany’s family land just outside of town, is set to become reality with The Birdsong Bar and Patio.

“We’re creating a come-as-you-are hub for friends, family, neighbors and visitors alike—a place where anyone feels comfortable stopping by for fairly priced food, drinks and mocktails, games, gatherings, and fun events,” the Stinsons said in a social media post. “Nothing fancy, just simple as that.”

What we know: Construction is ongoing at The Birdsong Bar and Patio, which will feature pool tables, arcade games, a book and game nook, and patio games.

• Opening December
• 1200 N.E. Loop 230, Smithville

Here are the top Community Impact stories in the Austin area from Nov. 17-20.

1. Officials break ground on 60,000-square-foot entertainment complex in Georgetown

2. New Chipotle planned for Georgetown

3. J. Alexander’s to open first Cedar Park location next year

4. Texans again receiving full SNAP benefits, state health department says

5. Russo’s Italian Kitchen closes in Pflugerville months after reopening

6. Bastrop ranchers launch glamping stay with ATV tours, fishing and more

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is moving forward with a set of permanent rules designed to prohibit the sale of consumable THC products to anyone under 21 years old.

The overview: The proposal is similar to emergency rules adopted Sept. 23, which are currently in effect and prohibit Texas alcohol retailers from selling intoxicating THC products to minors. The state health department adopted similar emergency rules in October.

The context: The existing and proposed THC rules are the result of a September executive order by Gov. Greg Abbott, who called for age restrictions on THC sales and tighter guardrails on the multibillion-dollar industry.

Earlier this month, federal lawmakers approved a ban on most consumable THC products, which is set to take effect in November 2026. The ban is part of a federal funding package that became law Nov. 12, ending a 43-day federal government shutdown.

Next steps: Texans can weigh in on the TABC's proposed permanent rules during a Dec. 11 virtual public hearing or submit written public comments through Jan. 4.