The Rockdale ISD Board of Trustees convened on Monday, March 18 to address critical concerns surrounding transportation safety and overcrowding on buses. Following an in-depth discussion and thorough consideration of various factors presented by Rockdale ISD, including survey results and community feedback, the board voted to reinstate staggered start times for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year. Under the newly approved transportation plan, buses will operate each route twice daily. The first run will accommodate elementary and intermediate school students who will begin school at 7:30 a.m. and end at 3:15 p.m.
The second will cater to junior high and high school students who will have a later start time of 8:30 a.m. and end at 4:15 p.m.
By staggering start and end times in this manner, the board seeks to reduce the number of students on each bus route and optimize the utilization of district resources, thereby enhancing transportation safety and efficiency.
In response to the reinstatement of staggered start times, the district will proactively communicate with parents and stakeholders regarding before and afterschool opportunities to support families during drop-off and pick-up time differences.
Additionally, the next superintendent advisory meeting will focus on collaborative solutions to ensure that staggered start times are implemented effectively to accommodate the needs of all families within the district.
'We recognize that this decision may present challenges for some families, and we are committed to working closely with our community to address concerns and explore viable solutions,' said Rockdale ISD Superintendent, Denise Monzingo. 'Our priority remains the safety, well-being, and academic success of our students, and we are dedicated to upholding these principles as we navigate these changes together.'
For more information and updates regarding the reinstatement of staggered start times for the 20242025 school year, please visit https://www.rockdaleisd.net/ or contact 512-430-6000.
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