Austin Independent School District is observing Transportation Employees Appreciation Week from October 20 to 24, highlighting the work of its transportation staff. The district’s transportation team, which includes bus drivers, dispatchers, mechanics, and supervisors, manages about 300 bus routes and operates nearly 600 buses. Each day, the department is responsible for transporting close to 20,000 students.
Kris Hafezizadeh, executive director of transportation, stated, “We’re making sure thousands of students are transported safely to and from school every day. That’s what we do. Bottom line is the mission of the department; to provide safe, reliable transportation for our students in the district.”
Despite ongoing challenges such as construction and heavy traffic in Austin, the transportation department has reported improvements in safety. The start of the current school year has seen a decrease in preventable accidents. In August 2025, preventable accidents dropped to six from 11 in August 2024. Similarly, September 2025 saw four preventable accidents, down from 12 in September 2024.
Safety measures for Austin ISD buses include exterior cameras that help prevent accidents by making other drivers more aware of stopped school buses. All buses are also equipped with digital cameras inside to protect both students and drivers, as well as lap shoulder belts for added safety.
During Transportation Employees Appreciation Week, district officials emphasize that ensuring student safety is a shared responsibility. Families are encouraged to remind students to use seatbelts while riding the bus.
