🚨 Parents fight to save 3 Leander schools from closure

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Our little getaway to Waco last week was such a blast. The Baylor game had incredible energy, and we were stoked that ASU pulled off the win with a literal last second field goal. It definitely made for one of those unforgettable game day memories!

We didn’t realize Magnolia Market is closed on Sundays, so we’ll have to save that for next time. The Waco Zoo more than made up for it, especially with the kids getting to feed the giraffes! And of course, no road trip is complete without a stop at Buc-ee’s on the way home for snacks and souvenirs.

It’s such a treat living close to fun little day trip spots like Waco. We’ll definitely be back, with Magnolia and more adventures on our list!

The Gist: Mayor Christine DeLisle shared on Sept. 18 that her last day with Leander City Council will be Oct. 16, as her family gets ready for a move. In the meantime, Mayor Pro Tem Na’Cole Thompson will step in to help lead until a special election is held to choose a new mayor.

Why It Matters: DeLisle is wrapping up her term a little earlier than planned, opening the door for new leadership in our fast-growing community. She leaves with gratitude for what’s been accomplished and optimism for Leander’s future.

Read more here.

The Gist: Facing a $20.2 million budget shortfall, Leander ISD is weighing options that could close and repurpose Cypress, Faubion, and Steiner Ranch elementary schools next year. Parents and grassroots groups have rallied to save the campuses, arguing closures would hurt neighborhood communities.

Why It Matters: The decision could reshape local education, affecting families, staff, and students across southern LISD as enrollment shifts resources north. For many, keeping these schools open is about preserving the heart of their communities.

What’s Next: The LISD board is scheduled to vote on the proposed closures and cost-saving measures at its Oct. 9 meeting.

Read more here.

The Gist: The Cedar Park Public Library was named ULI Austin’s 2025 Best Public Place at the Impact Awards on Aug. 27. Since opening last November, the 47,000-square-foot library has drawn more than 500,000 visitors with features like kids play areas, a makers space, and community gathering spots.

Why It Matters: The award shines a light on how quickly the library has become a favorite hangout in the Bell District. It’s a place where neighbors meet up, kids explore, and families spend unhurried time together, right in the heart of Cedar Park.

Read more here.

The Dog Alliance brings joy with service dogs. Volunteer to:

🌱 Spruce up the campus
🐶 Foster a future service pup
👋 Help dogs practice greetings
🧘 Join puppy yoga

✅ All ages welcome (under 15 with a guardian)
⏱ Year-round events

🐶 Wagging tails await!

For more details or to sign up, visit The Dog Alliance.

Food truck dining doesn’t get much better than The Boss Cheesesteak. Juicy smashburgers, loaded Philly cheesesteaks, and frosty house-made lemonades make it a crowd favorite, while shaded seating, cornhole boards, and a giant outdoor screen turn it into a hangout.

The vibe is relaxed, the service is warm, and the portions deliver big flavor. Pair it with a drink from the on-site bar and you’ve got a perfect night out.

Learn more here.

When noodles are made in-house, you can taste the difference, and Ramen512 proves it with every steaming bowl. From silky tonkotsu to garlicky black ramen and creative regional specials, the menu balances tradition with flair.

Crispy chicken karaage and chashu rice bowls add to the fun, but it’s the rich, soulful broths that keep fans lining up. Worth the wait, worth the drive, and easily among Austin’s best ramen.

Learn more here.

👻 Click the image below for your guide to local pumpkin patches, festivals, haunted thrills, and family-friendly Halloween fun!

🍷 WE’RE HIRING: Uptown Liquor Liberty Hill

Uptown Liquor seeks a part-time Cashier/Customer Service team member to assist customers and stock shelves. $13–$15/hr, flexible schedule, and employee discount. Must be 21+. Learn more here.

💪 Propel Physical Therapy | propelpts.com

Personalized physical therapy in Cedar Park, Leander, and Liberty Hill. Expert care for recovery, chronic pain, and performance with heart, skill, and a community-centered approach.

🚚 WE’RE HIRING: Hill Country Community Ministries Thrift Store Leander

HCCM Thrift Store seeks a part-time team member for furniture pick-up and delivery. $17/hr, 15–20 hrs weekly, with customer service focus. Learn more here.

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Thanks for reading Leander Scoop! See you next week!