Killeen Independent School District (KISD) has announced several changes aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in the school’s transportation system and daily schedules for the 2023-2024 academic year. During a recent school board meeting, KISD trustees discussed these significant changes, highlighting adjustments that will improve student safety and streamline school operations. Starting next year, KISD will implement a shift to an earlier start time for elementary schools at 7:30 AM, transitioning high school start times to 8:30 AM. This adjustment is designed to better align with local traffic patterns and ensure that younger students are not traveling to school when roads are at their busiest, a concern raised by parents during community meetings. The new school schedules will also see most middle schools starting their day at 8:00 AM, providing a structured schedule that promotes a safer transportation environment. KISD has also introduced new safety measures for its buses, including GPS tracking systems designed to track vehicle locations in real-time, which will provide parents and guardians with updates on their child’s bus location. Superintendent Dr. John Craft commented on the changes, stating, “We are committed to ensuring our students have the safest possible ride to and from school, and these changes reflect our dedication to improving not just the academic experience but also the overall safety of our students.” Additionally, the district has invested in driver training programs focused on safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with student transportation. Board members praised the comprehensive approach of KISD, which includes input from various stakeholders, including parents, transportation staff, and local law enforcement. These adjustments are part of KISD’s ongoing efforts to adapt and respond to community feedback regarding school safety and the logistics of student transportation. The upcoming school year promises to introduce an improved infrastructure that prioritizes student wellbeing amid growing concerns around school and road safety.
Killeen ISD Implements New Schedule and Transportation Safety Measures for Upcoming School Year
