KILLEEN, TX — Killeen ISD school bus drivers were unsuccessful in a fight for change on Tuesday.
The Killeen Educators Association took one last chance to push through a grievance they filed last year on behalf of the KISD Transportation Department.
Citing mainly a shortage of drivers, the grievance says work conditions have caused some drivers to work extra hours. Even mechanics and other employees have had to fill in for missing drivers.
The Killeen Educators Association said changes are needed including a $3 an hour raise for drivers.
"Not only the pay issue, but all the other issues too in terms of this shortage tight. Because everybody benefits when we have a fully staffed, fully supported, fully employed district that is happy and comfortable and proud to be working in their jobs,” said Rick Beaulé, president of the Killeen Educators Association.
The district said the grievance was filed close to six months after the budget meeting was held in June 2018. Any grievances were to be filed within 15 days of that meeting.
The school board voted to uphold the district’s denial of the grievance. They said drivers can make up to $21 an hour after incentives and bonuses.
