Good morning, Temple.

Bell County officials confirmed that the burn ban remains in effect and the Summer Surge hiring event will match local job seekers with employers in Temple this week.

Temple celebrates the grand reopening of the safari-themed playground at Lions Park today.

The event highlights park improvements and a renewed city partnership — providing a fun space for local families.

An AgriLife educational meeting will focus on controlling the destructive pasture mealybug, the seasonal return of fall armyworms, and the ongoing threat from the new world screwworm.

Local farmers can look forward to practical pest management strategies (timing to be announced).

State report cards were released Friday showing that several Texas school districts, including Austin, earned low grades and may face state takeovers for chronic academic issues.

Districts have until Sept. 11 to appeal their ratings as parents use the scores to choose schools.

Central Texas College is expanding food assistance — partnering with the Killeen Food Care Center using a $2,500 Food Recovery Network grant — to combat local food insecurity.

Temple ISD and Belton ISD received a B rating on their school accountability report cards that help parents track student progress.

The ratings were part of the annual release that provides an overview of school performance.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor is launching its Promise program to cover tuition for incoming students who meet financial and academic criteria starting Fall 2026.

The initiative, funded by local donors, aims to make private college education more accessible for more families.

Academy ISD reported improved A-F ratings from the TEA + celebrated its continued academic success; district leaders say the growth reflects strong efforts in student performance and accountability, and they plan to build on these outcomes over the coming school year.

Honey Creek State Natural Area now welcomes visitors at its new trailhead in the park's southwestern area & it was previously accessible only by guided entry.