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CFISD says bus routes largely staffed and launches "bus buddy" volunteer push as school starts
Summary
District leaders reported progress recruiting drivers, returning most routes to service and encouraged volunteer signups for the "bus buddy" program to help young riders during the first days of school.
Cypress‑Fairbanks ISD officials told the board on Aug. 11 that the district has substantially reduced open bus routes and is asking volunteers to help with a new "bus buddy" program when school starts Aug. 13.
Superintendent Dr. Killian highlighted the bus buddies program during opening announcements, describing it as a volunteer initiative on Aug. 13–14 to assist young bus riders with getting to their drop‑off points. "It's a great thing for our students and for our bus drivers," he said.
Board members and staff also reported hiring progress for drivers. Trustees said 69 drivers were in training and 18 routes remained unassigned at the time of the meeting; later comments noted a larger hiring effort that the district credited with filling the bulk of positions. One trustee said the district welcomed 250 new bus drivers over the last year and that open positions had fallen from about 100 to the low teens.
District transportation leaders held an in‑person training day for drivers and presented the board with operational updates. Trustees praised the transportation staff and said recent pay adjustments and recruitment efforts were central to increasing applicants and returning service after a multi‑year shortage.
Volunteers were asked to register through the district website. District staff said the first week of school will have heavier vehicle traffic and urged motorists to use caution in school zones.
Trustees said they will continue to monitor route staffing and may make additional operational changes if shortages reappear during the semester.
