Bastrop ISD administrators shared plans in November for improvements to student performance at specific campuses in the district, in accordance with Texas Education Agency requirements.

Why now? A plan of action to improve performance is required by the state for campuses that score an "F" rating in accountability. 

What you need to know: Trustees approved targeted improvement plans for Camino Real Elementary, Cedar Creek Elementary, Lost Pines Elementary, Red Rock Elementary and Bastrop Middle School on Nov. 18.

Targeted improvement plans are similar to campus improvement plans, and include an element of federal accountability intervention, such as for Title I campuses.

Volunteers from Foundation Christian Ministries in Bastrop are constructing ramps for residents to safely enter and leave their homes—an initiative through the Texas Ramp Project that needs more volunteers to bring mobility and independence to those in need.

The details: Chris Rowland, a pastor with Foundation Christian Ministries at 177 Union Chapel Road E. in Bastrop, told Community Impact the local need for ramps is growing, as there are more than 50 Bastrop residents on a waitlist.

Currently, Foundation Christian Ministries—with the help of six to 10 volunteers—is able to build just one ramp every other month.

Notable quote: “We are currently the only team building [free ramps] in the city of Bastrop,” Rowland said, noting that Foundation Christian Ministries has participated in the Texas Ramp Project for the last two years. “That’s a problem. We need to expand our impact.”

Check out these Austin-area holiday events in November and December, featuring an array of activities for the whole family. Community members can shop from local businesses at the Blue Genie Art Bazaar, decorate holiday cookies, sit in on festive storytimes, watch various light shows and more. 

This list is not comprehensive and events are subject to change. 

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’
The show based on the “Peanuts” special will feature a pay-what-you-wish weekend, markets and an ASL night.

• Nov. 7-Dec. 28, showtimes vary by date
• $21-$31
• 1421 W. Riverside Drive, Austin