Transportation Crisis Forces School District to Cut Bus Routes

In a recent meeting, Cy-Fair Independent School District (CFISD) officials discussed the challenging decision to cut 79 bus routes due to a significant shortage of bus drivers. The district began the 2023-2024 school year with a shortfall of 145 drivers, which has since improved to 52. To manage this deficit, staff members from various departments stepped in to drive buses, demonstrating a strong commitment to student transportation despite being overworked and underpaid.

CFISD's Chief Operating Officer, Matt Morgan, emphasized the unsustainable nature of relying on aging drivers, many of whom are nearing retirement. He acknowledged the financial competition posed by private sector companies like Amazon and UPS, which can offer more attractive compensation packages. Morgan highlighted the dedication of long-serving employees, such as Florence Peterson, who has driven for the district for 51 years, and called for greater community involvement through programs like \"Bus Buddies\" to foster understanding of transportation challenges.

The meeting also addressed public safety concerns, with Morgan recounting an incident involving an upset parent on the first day of school. He intervened to prevent a confrontation, underscoring the need for community support and understanding of the transportation team's efforts.

Additionally, the board discussed the importance of pedestrian safety around schools and encouraged community members to collaborate with local authorities to improve infrastructure. They reiterated that budget constraints necessitated the reduction of bus routes, a decision made unanimously by the board.

In response to media coverage that inaccurately reported a student crossing a highway, CFISD officials clarified that the student had safe passage through a neighborhood with sidewalks. They expressed frustration over the misinformation, which detracted from addressing real concerns during the school year’s start.

The meeting concluded with a focus on academic performance, as initial STAR test results indicated that CFISD continues to outperform other regional schools. Board members praised teachers for their hard work and emphasized the district's commitment to supporting educators and improving student outcomes. As the school year progresses, CFISD aims to enhance communication with state representatives to address ongoing challenges and ensure the well-being of students and staff.