🌱 Low Unemployment + Staff And Sub Shortage For Round Rock ISD

Hello, neighbors! It's me again, Nicole Fallon-Peek, your host of the Round Rock Daily.

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First, today's weather:

Very windy; much colder. High: 49 Low: 35.

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Here are the top 3 stories in Round Rock today:

1. Although job creation slowed slightly at the end of 2021 unemployment remains low in the Round Rock area. County-wide, the unemployment rate was just 3.2 percent in November 2021, down from 4.9 percent in November of 2020, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Williamson County also has a lower overall unemployment rate than Texas's state average of 4.5 percent. (Round Rock Patch)
2. With COVID-19 cases rising, Round Rock ISD's is not only dealing with a large number of staff absences, but a lack of substitute teachers as well. On Thursday, just 40 percent of the 579 absent staff positions were taken by substitutes, leaving 60 percent unfilled. The district has a few contingency plans to combat these absences, including having other campus and central office staff fill in and having teachers volunteer to cover classes during their planning periods. (KVUE.com)
3. On Thursday, Round Rock City Council approved a proposed rezoning that will allow for the building of planned unit development off of Old Settlers Boulevard. The 6.5-acre tract of land will be developed into a townhome community with up to 78 units. Future residents will enjoy amenities such as a dog park, playground, and picnic areas. (Community Impact Newspaper)

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Today in Round Rock:

• Music Saturdays On Stage At American Legion George Johns Post 447 (8:00 PM)

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From my notebook:

• The Herrington Elementary PTA announced and welcomed Vicky Ramos as its new Secretary. There are still some PTA Chair positions open, so if you would like to get involved, email president@herringtonhawkspta.org for more information. (Facebook)
• Williamson County's newly-redistricted voting precincts are now in effect, and updated Voter Registration Certificates will be mailed out to all active registered voters. The deadline to register for the upcoming March 1 special election is Jan. 31, so be sure to check your voter registration status here. (Facebook)
• Ready to meet your 2022 fitness goals? Between now and Jan. 31, the CHASCO Family YMCA in Round Rock is offering a $0 join fee for new members who sign up online or in-person with the code FYY22. (Facebook)
• Looking for your new best friend? These Round Rock area pets are waiting to be adopted from local animal shelters. (Round Rock Patch)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Saturday! See you all tomorrow morning for your next update.

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.