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Welcome back to this week’s episode of the ShortCut, where we break down the biggest stories impacting our community.

First, we’ll take a look at Rotan ISD’s upcoming town hall meeting on February 3, where officials hope to gather public input on a possible bond election this May. After last year’s failed bond proposal, the district is seeking clarity on community concerns before making any decisions.

Next, we’ll cover the TASA 2025 Midwinter Conference, where school superintendents from across Texas—including those from the Double Mountains region—gathered to discuss pressing education issues. A key focus was a proposed bill that could change how school funding is calculated, potentially providing more stability for rural districts.

We’ll also dive into Aspermont ISD’s bond project, as district leaders work to finalize architect contracts while navigating the complexities of construction planning and budgeting. Superintendent Zach Morris is working to ensure clear roles and responsibilities to maximize the district’s funding.

In Fisher County, the hospital district board approved a tax abatement for the Indigo Solar Project, a large-scale solar energy development expected to bring over $2.1 million to the district over the next decade. The project is set to break ground in 2025 and contribute to Texas’ renewable energy infrastructure.

And finally, in this week’s editorial, Editor Jeff Hurt examines the fine line between free speech and journalistic responsibility, reflecting on a recent debate among newspaper publishers over whether to print a controversial letter to the editor. With a nod to Benjamin Franklin’s timeless defense of the press, Hurt challenges us to consider what journalism truly stands for today.

Stay tuned as we break down these stories and more—right here on the shortcut.