An incentive program launched this school year to increase daily attendance for Kyrene School District bus drivers is showing significant results, improving daily bus route coverage and reducing transportation disruptions for students and families.

In July of 2025, the Kyrene Governing Board approved an attendance stipend for bus drivers aimed at encouraging consistent attendance throughout the school year. Eligible drivers can receive a $750 quarterly stipend if they are absent no more than one day during the quarter, for a total of up to $3,000 annually.

Since the stipend was introduced, the district has seen a substantial improvement in driver attendance. During the 2024–25 school year, the transportation department averaged more than eight driver absences per day. In the 2025–26 school year, average daily absences have decreased to 2.4 per day.

A growing number of Kyrene drivers are participating in the incentive program: 76% of eligible drivers received the stipend in the first quarter, 69% in the second quarter, 78% in the third quarter, and Kyrene reports 93% of drivers are on track to earn the stipend in the final quarter of the school year.

The improvement in attendance has resulted in more consistent route coverage and fewer service disruptions for students and families.

“Reliable transportation plays an important role in supporting student learning and helping families maintain daily routines,” said Superintendent Laura Toenjes. “We are proud of the commitment our transportation staff has shown this year, and these results demonstrate the positive impact of recognizing employees for consistent attendance and service.”

News of the positive impact of attendance stipends comes on the heels of the Kyrene Governing Board’s vote to approve employee raises and a retention stipend for all eligible employees in the 2026-27 school year. The district continues to focus on strategies that support employee retention, operational reliability and positive experiences for students, families and staff.