The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is launching a major overhaul of its student transportation system for the 2025–26 school year, aimed at reducing costs, shortening commute times and offering more flexible travel options for students.
District officials announced the plan includes a partnership with Houston METRO, staff restructuring, route optimization, and updated policies for school choice transportation.
Under the new plan, eligible high school students will receive free METRO transit passes. The district hopes this option will alleviate pressure on traditional bus routes and give students more reliable access to school and extracurricular activities.
The district is also replacing 125 central office and terminal positions with 155 new roles focused on efficiency and accountability. HISD emphasized that no bus drivers or attendants will be laid off, and all current employees are encouraged to reapply.
“We are modernizing the way students get to school,” HISD Superintendent Mike Miles said in a statement. “This is about making transportation safer, faster, and more responsive to the needs of our families.”
HISD plans to reduce the number of bus routes from 508 to about 423, which is expected to save $3 million annually. The average ride time for students is projected to decrease from 1 hour and 45 minutes to about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Additionally, the district is adjusting its bus stop policy for students enrolled through the school choice program. Starting in the fall, students may need to travel up to three miles to reach their designated bus stop — an increase from the current two-mile limit.
Parents will also have the option to request transportation directly through online surveys or text messages, allowing for more personalized service.
The new system includes updated ride time targets: 50 minutes or less for students attending their zoned schools and 80 minutes or less for those in magnet programs. Clear guidelines on attendance, behavior and METRO use will be provided to participating students and families.
Students eligible for METRO passes include those who live more than two miles from their zoned campuses, travel on hazardous routes, or are classified under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
Families are expected to receive updated route information by the end of July.
For questions or to confirm transportation eligibility, parents are encouraged to contact the HISD transportation department directly.