In a recent government meeting, officials discussed pressing transportation needs within the district, highlighting a significant shortfall in school bus availability. Currently, the district operates 51 buses, but with 6,500 students relying on bus transportation, officials estimate a requirement of 78 buses to adequately serve all routes. This leaves a gap of 15 buses, which is exacerbated by a shortage of drivers, as many staff members, including mechanics, are currently driving buses due to the lack of personnel.

To address the driver shortage, the district plans to launch a recruitment campaign, including the installation of banners across the area to attract new bus drivers. Discussions also touched on the possibility of offering sign-on bonuses to incentivize potential hires, although this will require further deliberation.

The board approved the purchase of five new buses from Longhorn Bus Sales LLC, totaling approximately $746,950, despite acknowledging that this number falls short of the actual need. The delivery of these buses is anticipated by August, coinciding with the opening of a new campus.

In addition to transportation issues, the meeting covered updates on various construction projects. The district reported successful completion of a detention pond for the city of Willis, which came in under budget at just over $80,000, significantly less than the allocated $115,000.

Progress was also made on the high school greenhouse project, with contracts finalized and construction expected to commence within the next month. The track extension project is still in negotiation, but officials are optimistic about staying within the original budget of $158,000 by breaking the project into smaller segments.

The next board meeting is scheduled for November 13, where further updates and discussions are expected to continue addressing the district's needs and projects.