Meet the Team: Transportation Services

Round Rock ISD Transportation Services proudly serves over 22,000 students each school day. Covering 110 square miles, our 243 buses navigate 147 bus routes to and from 56 campuses across approximately 15,000 miles daily.

“Bus drivers are the first people the student sees when they start and end their school day. We take that responsibility to heart,” said Joe Morales, driver supervisor. “Student safety and security are our top priorities, and our drivers are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment on every ride.”

Before the sun rises, Round Rock ISD’s dedicated transportation staff is already hard at work preparing for the school day. While drivers conduct thorough bus inspections, checking for mechanical issues and ensuring everything is in top condition, dispatchers coordinate routes and communicate important updates.

Student transportation is a year-round commitment. During the school year, buses hit the road as early as 6:30 a.m., and in the summer, they continue serving students by providing transportation for summer school and athletic competitions, said Donna Dunagan, transportation assistant supervisor.

“Part of our team’s training includes adaptability,” said Dunagan. “We follow strict safety protocols while staying prepared to navigate unexpected challenges, such as traffic or weather delays.”

Once students arrive safely at school, drivers return their buses to the transportation barn for post-trip inspections, checking for any left-behind items and reporting maintenance concerns. Midday, they head back out, ensuring students are safely transported home to their designated bus stops.

“Transportation is a key barrier many of our students face,” said Yoliy Gamboa-Jones, transportation supervisor. “We are essential for student success ensuring they have reliable and safe transportation to school.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, students are 70 times safer traveling by bus than by car. School bus safety is achieved through advanced route planning, real-time driver communication, and flexible contingency plans that help minimize delays.

“Our daily operations involve extensive behind-the-scenes planning, coordination, and safety management,” said Tina Faucett, transportation director. “From complex logistics and route optimization to vehicle maintenance, driver training, and emergency preparedness, our team handles it all. I am proud to lead such a dedicated, skilled, and adaptable group of professionals who are truly experts in their field.”