📚 Round Rock ISD’s plan to grow local teachers

This is still one of my favorite times of year around Round Rock. Soccer season is here, spring events are filling up the calendar, and there’s just a little more energy everywhere you go. Even with all the rain lately, it still feels like spring is in full swing, and you can tell everyone is ready to get outside whenever the weather gives us a break.

This is also when restaurants with outdoor play areas really shine. On those nicer days, being able to sit outside, enjoy a meal, and let the kids play for a bit just makes everything easier and more fun. One of our favorites is Camp Briteside. They often have live music, and it’s always one of the first spots I think of for a meetup with kids. The little baseball field and grassy area are perfect for playing sports or just running around and getting some energy out.

If your family has a spot you love, send it our way. We’d love to check it out and maybe even feature it!

The Gist: Texas families showed huge interest in the new education savings account program, with more than 270,000 applications submitted for its first year. Right now, funding is expected to cover around 90,000 to 100,000 students, with priority going to students with disabilities and lower-income families. That means not everyone will get in right away, but it’s also clear there’s strong demand for more educational options across the state.

Why It Matters: For parents, this is encouraging because it shows there’s finally movement toward giving families more flexibility in how they approach school. At the same time, the first year will likely come with some waiting and uncertainty as demand outweighs available funding. Even so, it feels like an important first step, especially for families who have been hoping for more choices.

The Gist: Round Rock ISD is launching a teacher apprenticeship program this fall to help paraprofessionals and career changers become certified educators without needing a traditional four-year degree upfront. The program will offer paid training, college coursework, and hands-on classroom experience through multiple entry “on-ramps” based on existing credits.

Why It Matters: When schools invest in growing their own teachers, it can ease shortages and keep experienced local staff in classrooms. For students and families, it means more stability and a stronger chance that educators understand the community they’re serving.

Trying something new feels easy at Taste of Ethiopia I, especially when a colorful platter of stews lands right in front of you. The vegetarian feast brings lentils, split peas, and slow-cooked vegetables layered with warm spices, all scooped up with soft, tangy injera.

Sambusas add a crispy, savory start, and each bite leans rich but balanced. Best enjoyed slowly, with hands in the mix and plenty of conversation between bites.

More details here.

A new Marble Slab Creamery location just opened in Round Rock and it’s already getting great reviews. The shop offers a hands-on ice cream experience with rich, flavorful scoops and plenty of mix-ins, so it’s easy to make each order your own. It’s clean, welcoming, and the team is happy to offer samples and help you find a combo that sounds good.

From classic scoops to loaded shakes, it’s an easy spot to keep in mind when you’re in the mood for dessert!

More details here.

🌺 Red Poppy Festival 2026 | Downtown | Georgetown | 04/24 - 04/26 | More
Celebrate spring with flowers, live music, food, and community festivities.

🎨 Mainly Art Spring Market | Downtown | Round Rock | 04/25 | More
Explore local art, meet creators, and enjoy a lively outdoor market atmosphere.

🏃‍♂️ Hippo Stampede 5K | Adam Orgain Park | Hutto | 04/25 | More
Run, walk, and support scholarships while celebrating community spirit together.

🍴 Slice of Pflugerville | Downtown | Pflugerville | 04/25 | More
Celebrate culture, cuisine, and live music with community fun for all ages.

🎉 Big Event | Saint William Catholic Church | Round Rock | 04/25 | More
Family-friendly parish celebration with food, music, games, and community spirit.

🎉 Live at Lakeview Kickoff Celebration | Old Settlers Park | Round Rock | 04/25 | More
Music, ribbon cuttings, and a lively park opening night celebration.

🍷 Wine Tasting | Kork Wine Bar | Georgetown | 04/23 | More
Mix, mingle, and sip 5 curated wines with light bites. $30 per person, RSVP required.

🍹 The Clutch Kings | Sip & Smash Social | Pflugerville | 04/25 | More
Enjoy cocktails, pickleball, and live music for a relaxed Saturday night.

👜 Purses with a Purpose | Rio Grande Tex-Mex | Hutto | 04/26 | More
Play bingo for designer bags while supporting local families in need.

💼 Williamson County Youth Job Fair | Williamson County Annex Building | Georgetown | 04/28 | More
Career connections and opportunity-focused networking with local emerging talent.

🚶 Texas Autism Walk | Lakeline Park | Cedar Park | 04/25 | More
Connect, celebrate, and support the autism community with family-friendly activities.

🎉 KidsFestATX 2026 | Virginia L Brown Recreation Center | Austin | 04/25 | More
Family fun with activities, beloved characters, and community resources for kids.

🌎 Earth Day Celebration | Lakeline Park | Cedar Park | 04/26 | More
Celebrate nature with interactive booths, vendors, and family-friendly outdoor fun.

⛸️ Disney On Ice: Jump In! | H-E-B Center | Cedar Park | 04/26 | More
Magical skating adventure with favorite Disney characters for the whole family.

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Thanks for reading Round Rock Scoop! See you next week!