CORPUS CHRISTI, Tx \u2014 The Corpus Christi Independent School District is heading into the new school year with 68 active bus drivers and 50 open positions.<\/p>\n
Kyle Peliche, CCISD’s director of transportation services, said the shortage is part of a nationwide problem school districts have been dealing with for years \u2014 and it has even put him behind the wheel.<\/p>\n
CCISD bus driver shortage: 50 vacancies open as school year begins<\/p>\n
“We step in to drive the buses due to the shortage,” Peliche said.<\/p>\n
The shortage comes as the district is also adjusting to significant changes. Seven CCISD campuses closed this month, which Peliche said has added to the transportation workload.<\/p>\n
“We’ve had to add several bus route services for several students… so that increased our route services quite a bit,” Peliche said.<\/p>\n
To attract more drivers, CCISD raised its starting pay to $19.50 an hour within the last month. Requirements for the position include being at least 21 years old, having an acceptable driving record, and passing background checks.<\/p>\n
Peliche said the district’s new bell schedule should help maximize the drivers currently on staff.<\/p>\n
“Everyone knows the bus driver is the first person that a child sees that’s associated with their education experience,” Peliche said.<\/p>\n
As students return to school, Peliche is asking families to expect some delays during the first week as routes adjust and traffic around campuses picks back up.<\/p>\n
Those interested in applying can visit https:\/\/www.ccisd.us\/page\/jobs-and-applications-for-employment\/<\/a><\/p>\n This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.<\/p>\n For the latest local news updates, click here<\/a>, or download the KRIS 6 News App. <\/a><\/p>\n