Parents and Kids across Houston are experiencing delayed pick-up times or no shows as the...
The problem was worsened by the pandemic as school districts saw budget cuts and drivers leaving the workforce.In the state’s third largest district, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD director of transportation Kayne Smith said substitute drivers, technicians, and office staff are being used to cover route vacancies.The district currently has 97 vacancies out of 657 routes, he said.
Spring Branch ISD is 25 drivers short of being fully staffed at 200 drivers. Director of transportation Sherri Lawson said the district often hires people who can support more than one department. Bus assistants often assist the child nutrition department.“We have to double up on routes and return to the campus to pick up students for the afternoon,” the district said in an email.
According to TASB, pay for Texas bus drivers is rising faster than rates for other positions. The average rate for drivers increased by 16 percent in the past two years. Starting rates have increased by 11 percent, Campbell said, and the average starting rate this year is $19 an hour. To stay competitive with surrounding districts, Friendswood ISD recently increased its wages, with a starting wage of $19 an hour. Magnolia, Willis and Katy ISDs also have a $19-per-hour starting pay.
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