Cypress-Fairbanks ISD restores transportation for all students after cutting 79 bus routes earlier.
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD families have reason to celebrate as the district officially restored transportation for all students after cutting 79 bus routes earlier this school year.
The change comes as part of a newly approved $1.2 billion budget, which also includes pay raises for teachers, staff, and police officers.
More than 33,000 students were impacted by the earlier bus route cuts, leaving many families scrambling for safe and reliable transportation. The new budget reverses that decision, ensuring every student will have access to school transportation.
But transportation isn’t the only major change.
During Monday night’s board meeting, staff members voiced concerns about low wages.
“About two years ago, I was evicted from my apartment because I could not afford my rent,” said one employee. “I had to move back in with my parents and enrichment and chose to continue working here in Cy-Fair ISD.”
“I’m not asking for much, just a livable wage,” said another. “I made less in 2024 than in 2023. I work hard for the money I earn as a clinic assistant.”
The new budget addresses some of those concerns, according to the Houston Chronicle:
- $2,500 raises for teachers with 3–4 years of experience
- $5,000 raises for teachers with 5+ years
- 4% raise for all non-teacher employees
- $15 starting hourly wage
- $65,000 starting salary for new teachers
- Special education stipends of $2,000 to $3,500
- Raises for police officers, including a $63,000 starting salary and up to a 14% raise for veterans
While the investments are seen as a win for staff and families, the district may soon face financial challenges. The Chronicle reports that after factoring in raises and other expenses, Cy-Fair ISD is now looking at a $45 million budget deficit for the next school year.
KHOU 11 News has reached out to the district regarding concerns about the deficit and will provide updates as we learn more.