(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – April 28, 2026) — As the sun rises over the Franklin Mountains each morning, hundreds of El Paso ISD bus drivers and monitors are already behind the wheel, beginning the important work of connecting students to their classrooms. On April 28, El Paso ISD joins school districts nationwide to celebrate National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, honoring the dedicated professionals who ensure the safe and reliable transportation of El Paso’s future.
For many students, a bus driver is the first district representative they see in the morning and the last one they see before heading home. This consistent, friendly presence creates a bridge between the community and the classroom.
“Our bus drivers and monitors are the heart of EPISD,” said Joel Valencia, Director of Operations Services. “They provide a sense of security and stability that allows our students to focus on what matters most: learning.”
While safety is the primary mission, the impact of transportation staff often extends into the emotional well-being of the students. Brenda Facio, an El Paso ISD bus driver, views her role as part-educator and part-mentor.
“Sometimes the students are down, and I feel like it’s my job to try to raise their spirits and motivate them. I’ll listen to them and give them advice,” Facio said. “I like to see kids arriving safe and happy to their school. I have kids myself, so I know what it’s like for parents and seeing our students and families happy makes me feel great.”
This dedication is echoed by Kathy Cisneros, Director of Transportation for El Paso ISD. “Our drivers and bus monitors wake up early every morning, dedicating their lives to the community and our students’ academics,” Cisneros said.
The safety of a school bus relies on a partnership between the driver and the bus monitor. For Eric Delgado, a bus monitor, the job is about more than just managing the aisle, it’s about building relationships.
“We help the bus driver keep the kids safe so that they won’t hurt themselves or the driver. We make sure things go smoothly,” Delgado said. “Some of the most memorable moments are at the end of the day when we’re dropping off the kids and they come up to me and give me a high-five or a hug and say thank you. It makes me feel like I am doing a good job.”
El Paso ISD encourages parents, students, and staff to take a moment today to thank their bus drivers and monitors for the miles they travel and the lives they impact.