DESOTO — Last month the Dallas County Schools transportation system was dissolved as a result of an election held on November 7, 2017. As a result, this could present a hardship for students in the Best Southwest, who rely on this service.
At a recent Chamber luncheon, DeSoto ISD Superintendent Dr. David Harris said the district was looking for options.
In the meantime, Dallas County Schools will continue to provide service through the 2017-2018 school year.
David C. Scott, Director of Purchasing for DeSoto ISD, confirms. “DCS will remain in charge of transportation until the end of this school year … June 2018.”
Scott said a dissolution committee has been formed from the CFO’s from each District previously serviced by DCS. There have been several meetings to determine exactly where each district stands in regards to keeping the assets and the financial position of DCS.
Neighboring Districts Pool Resources
DeSoto ISD is also working with the neighboring districts of Cedar Hill and Lancaster to develop a plan for a transportation system prior to the start of the 2018-2019 school year.
“We have had several meetings with the management of Cedar Hill, Lancaster and DeSoto trying to see how we can jointly form a transportation service for the students of these three districts,” Scott explains. “This would allow us to take advantage of any economies of scale, which may be available if we join forces. We are in the early stages of this strategy and will continue to meet to decide the best way to move forward.”
On average, around 2,850 students per month are riding buses during the school year.
During the State of the School District presentation, DeSoto Mayor Curtistene McCowan inquired about possible new jobs in the area. Scott said any comment on new jobs would be premature until a strategy is complete.
“Residents and parents need to know that bus transportation will continue for the students of DeSoto ISD and that kids will continue to be educated until they graduate from the District,” Scott emphasizes. “We are committed to this statement. They also need to know that we are actively working to develop a transportation strategy.”
Scott did add that the development of a strategy has been delayed by the condition of DCS after the vote.
“There are many problems that need to be resolved as we progress to the dissolution of this entity,” Scott concludes. “The next steps are the continuation of committee meetings to determine the best way to move forward.”
