A new Go Au Pair ranking blames healthcare access and thin school networks for Texas’ poor showing in a national report on where to raise kids. Local data show high uninsurance and a shortage of pediatric care.

Austin approved a contract with Foundation Communities to provide on-site supportive services at Arbor Terrace for about 120 residents, beginning with a 13-month term. The deal includes extension options and initial funding from local housing and social services budgets.

Austin ISD posted a proposal to close Paredes Middle School and reassign students to nearby campuses, a move announced just weeks before the fall term. Families face rezoning, possible bus changes and an uncertain timeline.

A new Central Texas Alliance will bring Austin and San Antonio leaders together to tackle I‑35 traffic, housing, healthcare and workforce as the corridor adds millions more residents.

Martin Middle — the East Austin campus that was the district’s first fully integrated middle school — is closing and Austin ISD is weighing reuse options that could house expanded or alternative programs.

A Bastrop resident claimed a $1 million Powerball prize from the July 8 drawing; the winning Quick Pick was sold at a Circle K on State Highway 71.

Buda animal control says 20–25 dogs are headed to San Marcos shelter; rescues and fosters are urgently needed.

An H-E-B in New Braunfels sold the last $20 million top prize on the $20 Million Supreme scratch-off, state records show.

City records show Austin has already spent more than $100,000 cleaning graffiti from private buildings since an October 2025 pilot launched. Officials say they are tracking the results before deciding whether to continue the program.

SFA will phase out its Early Childhood Laboratory, cutting 72 high-quality child-care seats in East Texas. The move affects families and hands-on training for future educators.

After ICE detained a woman outside a north Austin clinic, CommUnityCare says it is reviewing safety, outreach and communication steps as patients and advocates raise alarms.

Trinity Center has added afternoon hours and services in downtown Austin to shelter people experiencing homelessness from dangerous summer heat. The expanded schedule includes showers, meals and a rest area.

Buda police remind residents that fireworks are illegal inside the city and within 5,000 feet; violations can carry fines up to $500.