Introduction to HISD Transportation Survey
The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is sending out a transportation survey to all parents this week. The survey is crucial for determining eligibility and planning routes for the next school year. It’s essential for all parents to fill out the survey, whether their child rides the bus or not. The survey will be sent via email, so be sure to check your inbox.
Eligibility for Bus Transportation
To qualify for bus transportation, students must attend their zoned school and live more than two miles away from the school. Students who attend magnet schools can also qualify for transportation, regardless of the distance from their home. Additionally, students with hazardous routes to school may be eligible for transportation. HISD is one of the few school districts in Texas that provides transportation to magnet students, making it unique in its approach to student transportation.
Changes to Bus Transportation
One significant change for the 2025-2026 school year is the reduction of ride times for students on buses. The district has set a goal to ensure that students who ride the bus to their zoned school will not have a ride time longer than 50 minutes. For students attending magnet schools, the maximum ride time will be 80 minutes. This change aims to improve the overall transportation experience for students.
Requesting Transportation
For the next school year, parents will be able to make transportation requests directly to the district’s transportation department, rather than making the request at the school campus. This change is designed to streamline the process and make it more efficient for parents.
Partnership with METRO
HISD is also partnering with METRO to provide high school students with an alternative transportation option. Eligible high school students will have the choice between using a METRO pass or a district bus to get to and from school. This partnership aims to provide students with more flexibility and independence in their daily commute. Many students are already using METRO to get to school, and this partnership will formalize the arrangement and provide students with a free METRO pass.
What’s Next for HISD Families
Over the next few weeks, HISD families can expect to receive more information about the changes to transportation. During the week of May 5, families will receive a survey where they can make initial transportation requests for the 2025-2026 school year. It’s essential for parents to stay informed and participate in the survey to ensure that their child’s transportation needs are met.
Conclusion
The HISD transportation survey is a crucial step in planning for the next school year. By filling out the survey, parents can help the district determine eligibility and plan routes that meet the needs of all students. With changes to bus transportation and a new partnership with METRO, HISD is working to improve the overall transportation experience for its students. By staying informed and participating in the survey, parents can help ensure that their child has a safe and convenient way to get to and from school.
