LA JOYA, Texas – La Joya ISD has launched a new Transportation Route Optimization Initiative aimed at enhancing its student transportation system through strategic upgrades and improved route efficiency. This initiative is a key component of La Joya ISD’s five-year Strategic Plan, Achieving Excellence Together 2030, and directly supports the district’s commitment to modernizing transportation systems, enhancing operational efficiency, and improving the overall student experience, all while strengthening trust and transparency with families.
At the October 22 Board Meeting, Chief of Operations and Infrastructure S.B. Pierson presented an update on the district’s recent independent transportation audit, which examined route design, fleet operations, and system efficiency. The audit, conducted by Transfinder, a leading provider of K–12 transportation management software used by school districts statewide, focused on evaluating and modernizing the district’s routing system.
As part of the review, it was found that the district’s geo-coding system within Transfinder, the software used to map and optimize bus routes, has not been updated in more than 20 years. Industry best practices recommend that this type of geo-coding update be completed every two to three years to account for new housing developments and community growth. Updating this system will help ensure La Joya ISD’s routes accurately reflect current neighborhoods and provide the safest and most efficient transportation possible.
“Transportation is key to making sure every student can access a great education,” said S.B. Pierson. “We’re investing in safer, more efficient routes that help students arrive on time and ready to learn.”
Superintendent Dr. Marcey Sorensen emphasized the importance of this initiative as part of the district’s broader vision. “When we improve how students get to and from school, we strengthen the foundation of learning itself,” Dr. Sorensen said. “This effort reflects our belief that every student deserves a safe, efficient, and reliable ride to and from school, one that supports both their success and their families’ peace of mind.”
A Data-Driven Approach
The district’s collaboration with Transfinder is part of a larger effort to use data and technology to improve student services. The audit findings will guide next steps in route optimization, fleet updates, and staffing models to enhance safety, efficiency, and overall service reliability.
Commitment to Community and Sustainability
In alignment with Strategic Priority #4: Community Trust, Unity, and Partnership, La Joya ISD will continue engaging families and stakeholders through open houses and campus events before any major changes are implemented. The district is committed to keeping families informed and involved every step of the way.
The expected outcomes of the Transportation Optimization Initiative include improved on-time performance, reduced maintenance costs, greater fuel efficiency, and increased parent satisfaction.
“This is not just a transportation project,” Pierson said. “It’s an investment in our students’ success, our staff’s efficiency, and our community’s trust.”