Celina ISD is testing a new program to hire bus drivers as the district grows.

In a nutshell: Under a new referral incentive program, district employees can receive up to $750 for helping CISD find qualified drivers.

Why it matters: Employees who are hired based on the referral of an existing CISD staff member tend to work at the district longer, Human Resources Director Mindy Schoen said.

What they're saying: “Any kind of outside-the-box idea to help get people in the door is great,” Board Vice President Jarratt Calvert said.

85C Bakery Cafe celebrated its soft opening in Prosper on Oct. 8, a store representative confirmed.

On the menu: The Taiwanese chain sells sweet breads, cakes, cookies and buns, according to the company’s website. 85C Bakery Cafe also offers tea, coffee, matcha and boba.

The specifics: During its soft opening, the 85C Bakery Cafe in Prosper will be open Thursday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• 5720 W. University Drive, Ste. 10, Prosper

Ahead of Texas' 2027 legislative session, the state comptroller's office has asked lawmakers to double funding for its $1 billion education savings account program.

The overview: The program gives participating families taxpayer dollars for private education and homeschooling, and officials said at least $2 billion are needed to maintain current participation in the program.

Meanwhile, some Texas families are raising concerns about their local school districts losing money as students leave public schools to participate in the program, known as Texas Education Freedom Accounts.

What they're saying: "149 students have accepted vouchers that were otherwise enrolled in Pflugerville ISD, [resulting in] an estimated loss of $1.2 million in attendance funding," said Stacy Harrell, a PfISD parent. "That lost funding will add to budget cuts that are already affecting Pflugerville ISD families. Four elementary schools [are closing], with the possibility of more."