🏫 Is Leander losing a top-rated school? Parents pack urgent meeting

Pumpkin spice is back, football is kicking off, and even though the Texas heat isn’t letting up just yet, fall is sneaking in. You can feel it in the Friday night lights, the shelves full of pumpkin candles & Halloween candy, and weekends starting to stack up with tailgates and festivals.

So grab your latte, throw on that team jersey, and lean into the season. September’s here, and it’s shaping up to be a fun one!

The Gist: Parents packed a community meeting Aug. 25 as Leander ISD shared a proposal to merge Cypress Elementary with Naumann Elementary. Families raised concerns about losing an A-rated school with decades of history and deep community ties. District leaders said declining enrollment in some areas, combined with state underfunding, is driving the discussion.

Why It Matters: The decision could reshape neighborhoods and affect hundreds of students, leaving many families anxious about what’s ahead.

What’s Next: LISD will host more community meetings this week. The proposal goes to the board Sept. 18, with a final vote set for Oct. 9.

Read more here.

The Gist: Austin has been named the top large U.S. city for economic growth, according to a Coworking Cafe study. From 2019 to 2023, Austin saw a 51% GDP surge, 71% jump in new business applications, and strong gains in jobs, housing, and median earnings.

Why It Matters: The ranking reinforces Austin’s reputation as an economic powerhouse, fueling opportunity and shaping growth across Central Texas. It’s one more reason to be proud of the momentum our community continues to show.

Read more here.

There’s a new spot in town making waves. Hawaii Fluid Art, which opened earlier this year, is all about color, creativity, and community fun. From birthday parties to girls’ nights to date nights, neighbors can’t stop talking about the joy of pouring paint and creating one-of-a-kind art pieces with the guidance of warm, patient instructors.

The space is bright, welcoming, and buzzing with good energy. It’s the kind of place where kids light up, adults relax, and everyone leaves with both a smile and a masterpiece.

Check them out here.

Night Owl has quickly become the go-to neighborhood hangout for craft cocktails, cold drafts, and a laid-back vibe.

The bartenders are known for their skill and personality, whether you’re after a top-shelf bourbon or a colorful margarita. With food trucks serving tasty bites, a dog-friendly patio, and a massive screen for game days, it’s the kind of spot that feels like home the moment you walk in.

Check them out here.

This Whitestone Oaks home is all about living big with an upstairs loft that can be a game zone, guest suite, or young adult hideaway, plus four bedrooms and a flex room ready to become anything you imagine.

The kitchen steals the spotlight with granite counters, gas cooking, instant hot water, and under-cabinet lighting that makes even midnight snacks feel fancy. The living room is ready for every game day celebration while the primary suite gives you spa-level relaxation at home.

Outside, the backyard firepit sets the stage for Texas nights filled with friends, laughter, and maybe a s’more or two. 

Meet Airy! This nearly 2-year-old mixed-breed pup has a tan-and-black coat and a huge zest for life. Medium in size but big in personality, Airy is full of energy and would thrive with an active family who loves outdoor adventures.

He’s a fan of long walks, stuffed toys, and giving the very best hugs. Airy has done wonderfully in doggy daycare and recently passed a 3-day evaluation at Hounds Town with flying colors. His adoption fee is $150, and he’s waiting to meet his new family in Leander.

To learn more about this sweet boy, click HERE.

🩸 Emergency Preparedness Fair & Blood Drive | Rec Center | Cedar Park | 09/03 | More
Family-friendly fair with safety tips, giveaways, and community resources.

🎥 Friday Night Flicks & Touch-A-Truck | Milburn Park | Cedar Park | 09/05 | More
Explore community vehicles, then enjoy Transformers One under the stars.

🌾 Saddle Up & Sample | The 75 Oaks | Leander | 09/06 | More
Farm fun with local bites, shopping, animals, and community connection.

☕ Mary Poppins Themed Tea | Michelle’s Patisserie | Liberty Hill | 09/06 | More
A whimsical afternoon tea filled with magic, treats, and charm.

🐾 Dog Days of Summer | Robin Bledsoe Park | Leander | 09/06 | More
Pool play, prizes, and pet vendors for a fun-filled day with your pups.

🏎️ Cross Games USA | The Hobby Shop | Leander | 09/06–09/07 | More
Epic RC drift competition with Japanese-style judging, prizes, and community fun.

🍕 Pizza and Wine Sellout Night | Forrest Coffee House | Liberty Hill | 09/05 | More
Endless wood-fired pizza, wine tastings, and deep cellar-clearance deals.

🎉 The Play Hooky Experience | The Fieldhouse | Leander | 09/05 | More
Adult field day fun with games, music, drinks, and weekend vibes.

🏈 UT Game Watch Party | Night Owl | Leander | 09/06 | More
Early opening with drink specials, food trucks, and big-screen UT football.

🚂 Bertram Flyer: Wine, Beer & Bubbles | Cedar Park Depot | Cedar Park | 09/06 | More
Scenic vintage train ride with drinks, views, and historic charm.

🎶 Saturday Under the Oaks with Boot Rock Boys | Agape BBQ | Liberty Hill | 09/06 | More
Classic rock and blues with BBQ and beer beneath the oaks.

🎶 Buffett Beach Live | The Fieldhouse | Leander | 09/06 | More
A tropical tribute band bringing beach party vibes to Cedar Park.

🛍️ Round Rock Market Days | Downtown | Round Rock | 09/06 | More
Family-friendly market with live music, artisans, food, and pup-friendly fun.

🐾 K-9 Kerplunk | GT Recreation Center | Georgetown | 09/06 | More
End-of-summer pool party for pups and their humans.

🎶 Deep in the Heart Benefit Concert | ACL Live | Austin | 09/08 | More
Country stars unite to support Texas communities impacted by floods.

👩‍🍳 WE’RE HIRING: KinderCare Learning Companies Leander

KinderCare seeks a cook to prepare nutritious meals for children, maintain a safe kitchen, and support daily center operations. Full-time role with benefits, childcare discounts, and growth opportunities. Learn more here.

🤱 BirthBridge | mybirthbridge.com

Build your birth team in one place. Connect with trusted doulas, midwives, lactation consultants, and more. Providers who already collaborate, giving you calm and confident support from pregnancy through postpartum.

🍔 WE’RE HIRING: Mighty Fine Burgers & Shakes Cedar Park

Mighty Fine seeks a cashier/front of house team member to take orders, prepare shakes and lemonade, and deliver excellent guest service. Up to $20/hr with discounts and insurance benefits available. Learn more here.

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Thanks for reading Leander Scoop! See you on Thursday!