Bastrop ISD earned a C in the Texas Education Agency’s 2026 accountability ratings, but district leaders are aiming higher.

With new support systems, district officials said they hope to raise the district’s rating to a B within two years.

Breaking it down: Bastrop ISD demonstrated steady growth in its accountability performance, raising its overall score from 65 to 72 points, a D to a C rating, since the 2022-23 school year and one point since 2024-25.

Notable quote: “Our mission is bigger than a rating,” Superintendent Kristi Lee said. “It is about making sure every child in Bastrop ISD has access to excellent teaching, strong schools and opportunities that prepare them for what comes next.”

Going forward: District leaders aim to earn a B rating and eliminate low-performing campuses within two years. Bastrop ISD has also added campus-specific support, including monthly support meetings, weekly leadership coaching and targeted instructional assistance.

From nostalgic candy to handmade fudge and ice cream, Sugar Shack has been a sweet spot in Bastrop since 1995. Now, the longtime shop is closed.

In a nutshell: The team announced the closure in a social media post on Nov. 2, noting the decision was bittersweet.

"Coming to terms with this closure has been incredibly difficult, and we needed some time to process the end of such a meaningful chapter," the announcement reads.

What they offered: Sugar Shack was known for its selection of bulk and nostalgic candy, as well as handmade fudge, caramel apples, chocolate-dipped and frozen treats.

What else: Other offerings included gifts, toys and personalized gift baskets, along with birthday parties and catering services.

Notable quote: "Thank you for allowing Sugar Shack to be part of your birthdays, traditions, celebrations and everyday sweet moments," the announcement reads. "Those memories will always mean more to us than we can say."

• Closed Nov. 2

• 114 Loop 150 W., Bastrop

A donut shop in Bastrop, a fire station in Buda and a Whole Foods renovation in Cedar Park are among the five most expensive projects filed with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation in the Austin metro this week.

1. The Lenora ($8.3 million): This project involves the construction of 39 residential apartment units.

2. Buda Fire Station 4 ($7.8 million): A new fire station will be constructed in Buda, with construction set to wrap up in the spring.

3. Whole Foods Market Expansion ($7 million): The Whole Foods in Cedar Park will undergo a remodel, including a building addition, a revised layout and new equipment.

4. Pepper Lunch ($850,000): This project includes an interior remodel of an existing space into a Pepper Lunch Restaurant.

5. Ly’s Donuts ($200,000): A Ly’s Donuts location is coming to Bastrop, with construction set to wrap up in the spring.

Cities and counties across Central Texas have recently considered new and existing contracts with the security technology company Flock Safety as debates surrounding public safety and mass surveillance heighten.

Something to note: Gov. Greg Abbott froze the use of state funding for Flock cameras on Aug. 28.

Those opposed: Concerns from Central Texas residents include fears surrounding mass surveillance, and the collection and sharing of data.

In your community: On Sept. 8, Bastrop City Council voted to terminate the city’s Flock contract and prohibited future agreements with companies offering similar vehicle-surveillance services or equipment.