With the new school year underway, the Albany ISD staff is reminding families of the importance of safety, patience, and consistency during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up – particularly in the circle drive in front of the Nancy Smith Elementary School campus.

“It’s been smooth so far,” said NSES principal Jenci Chambers. “It always takes a little longer in the beginning, but each day gets better. We really appreciate parents helping us follow the rules so we can keep things safe for the kids.”

The 7th annual CareFest took place this past Saturday, August 16, at the Happy Wife Happy Life Weddings and Events Venue.

CareFest co-coordinator Ragan Riley said the day exceeded expectations. “It was a great turnout,” Riley said. “We would like to thank all our sponsors for helping us make it a success. Our volunteers are who make the event possible, and we are thankful for them.”

The fall semester is off to a fast-paced start for Albany FFA and Shackelford County 4-H members, with livestock entries, tag orders, sales, and validations scheduled almost weekly from now through mid-December.

While several deadlines and events already occurred earlier this month, a long list of important dates still lies ahead as students prepare for the 2025–2026 show season.

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Deadlines

By Melinda L. Lucas

The Shackelford County Hospital District Board formally appointed a new EMS director, approved a “balanced” 2026 budget, and proposed a slight tax rate increase during its regular monthly meeting on Monday, Aug. 18.

Colby Herron Named EMS Director

Colby Herron, who has served as interim EMS director since the departure of Mateo Millan earlier this year, was officially named to the role following a brief closed session.

The 7th annual CareFest is set for Saturday, August 16, at the Happy Wife Happy Life Weddings and Events Venue. The festival will be run for the first time this year by Big Country C.A.R.E.S., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, with all proceeds continuing to benefit ResourceCare.

Albany ISD welcomed students back to class Wednesday, August 13, with an opening-day enrollment lower than in recent years.

The district ended last school year with 475 students enrolled. As of Wednesday, there were 436 students fully registered and 11 more in progress, bringing the current total to 447. “We are down, but we never know until the first week ends,” said Leigh Lowe, AISD director of student services.

A man scheduled to have his case heard during a docket of trials at the Shackelford County Courthouse last week collapsed from a heart attack while seated in the front row. Quick action by law enforcement officers and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) inside the courthouse are credited with saving his life.

According to Constable Xavier Perez, the man told Deputy Jason Price he was having a heart attack before collapsing. Price and Sheriff Ed Miller immediately moved him to the floor and began using the AED while administering first aid until EMS arrived.

By David H. Waller

For the first time in several years, The Albany News will be updating its subscription and advertising prices. The new rates will go into effect with the next issue, Thursday, August 21, 2025.

The State Fire Marshal has determined the cause of the August 4 house fire in Moran to be undetermined.

City of Moran Fire Chief Tyler George said investigators found there was not enough evidence left after the blaze to reach a more conclusive finding, and the case is now closed. The fire began shortly after midnight and destroyed the home of the Dean Schoolcraft family. On Facebook, the family said they believe the fire may have been caused by faulty wiring.

Albany High School students will follow a major lunch schedule change this year as the boys’ and girls’ athletic periods move to different times. 

AHS male students will have athletics during fifth period and eat lunch at 12:35 p.m., while female athletes will have athletics sixth period and eat lunch at 1:20 p.m. after their athletic period. Traditionally, the boys and girls have had lunch at the same time and athletics last period.