HISD transportation workers catch superintendent's attention with protest for better pay

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Houston ISD transportation workers caught the attention of the superintendent Wednesday after they protested for better pay outside district headquarters.

SkyEye captured video of the demonstration outside Hattie Mae White Building on West 18th Street.

The People's Choice Association Union released a statement Monday, urging employees to show up on Wednesday to create change.

"Our members are outraged at the district's proposal for a minimal raise for the transportation employees! This protest is your last opportunity to stand up, speak up, and to show the district that all employees matter!... If you don't show up and stand up, stop gossiping and complaining in the breakrooms because you allowed the district to treat you like it does!"

Multiple demonstrators were seen holding signs that read "Better pay."

This comes a day after the district's last day of classes for the 2021-22 school year.

Superintendent Millard House II met with a group of bus drivers following the protest. He said he appreciates their willingness to speak frankly and he understands the vital role they play in safely transporting the students.

In the 2017-2018 school year, bus drivers received a raise from $16.65 to $18 per hour.

ABC13 reached out to the district for comment and officials said transportation workers will receive another raise in the coming school year.

"On Thursday, the HISD Board of Education is expected to vote on a 6% raise for bus drivers. The raise is also expected to include a retention stipend for drivers who return for the 2022-2023 school year," the district said in a statement to ABC13.

In addition, House announced two weeks ago that the district is updating its compensation plan. In the upcoming school year, teachers will receive an average pay raise of 11%, bumping the starting salary to $61,500.

SEE RELATED STORY: HISD school board discussing possible layoffs and teacher raises