Hutto ISD will implement a performance-based compensation model for educators starting in the 2027-28 school year, replacing the traditional pay structure.

What you need to know: This new system, funded by a Texas Education Agency grant, will reward teachers based on their ability to foster student growth.

In their own words: "I do think we owe it to some of the people that have the greatest impacts on our children, on our communities, to make sure that they can drive a car that gets them to and from work, live in a house in a safe neighborhood, all those things," Chief of Schools C.J. Lowery said.

Heritage Bloom Fiber Co., a mother-and-daughter-owned fabric store, will be opening soon in Hutto.

The details: The store will offer fabric, embroidery, yarn, and classes. They are planning to offer classes such as kids fiber arts classes, skill-building workshops and seasonal projects.

• Opening Oct. 10
• 115 East St., Unit B, Hutto

Williamson County commissioners are considering slowing down the justice center complex project, which plans to construct a jail and courtrooms near SE Inner Loop in Georgetown, in order to prioritize community engagement.

Officials discussed the next steps of the project at a July 21 Commissioners Court meeting.

The current situation: The county is currently wrapping up Phase 2 of planning for the new justice center complex, a project that began a year ago with an initial needs assessment. Although the county has purchased a site for the project, commissioners said they have not authorized final designs, contractors or any actual construction.

Commissioners are pushing to slow down the process to rebuild public trust and actively engage local residents, the school district and the city of Georgetown, Precinct 4 commissioner Russ Boles said at the meeting.

What's next: County Manager Rebecca Clemons plans to bring a proposal for public engagement and to begin preliminary design concepts to the first Commissioners Court meeting in August.

Check out some of the most-read stories from the Austin area July 20-23. 

1. New bridge over Onion Creek opens in Buda, increasing city access

2. Liberty Hill approves $1.5M for preliminary planning of downtown project

3. Sunbird Ranch neighborhood to offer land-lease model for homebuyers 55-plus in Georgetown

4. New Braunfels to conduct full analysis of police headquarters due to structural issues

5. iScream Gelato coming to east Round Rock

6. Lost dogs and e-bikes: 5 stories to know in Bastrop-Cedar Creek