The overview
The system, StopFinder, is paired with a mobile app for parents to be notified when a bus is approaching their student’s stop and confirms once the student has safely boarded or exited the bus, according to district documents.
This is the first year the badging system has been implemented.
How we got here
The project started in June 2024 when the board of trustees approved $1.3 million in funding, along with a contract with school bus routing software Transfinder, CCISD’s Chief Communications Officer Elaina Polsen said.
The district took on a phased approach over the summer to test the system, gather feedback and refine procedures, CCISD's Transportation Director Tammy Pickett said.
The system rolled out in four phases, with one to two high schools, two to three middle and intermediate schools and six to seven elementary schools in each phase, according to district documents.
Quote of note
Now that the badging system is in full effect, Pickett said she encourages consistent use of the system throughout the district.
“This initiative was driven by our commitment to student safety,” Pickett said. “The badge system enables accurate tracking of students boarding buses, reduces the risk of unauthorized student access and enhances overall transportation security.”
