SBISD's Grow Your Own CDL Training Program is investing in employees, opening new career pathways and strengthening the team that helps students arrive safely, ready to learn.
For 80 years, Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) has been committed to excellence by investing in what matters most—people. As the district celebrates eight decades of serving students and families, that commitment extends far beyond the classroom.
From teachers and principals to bus drivers, maintenance crews, child nutrition teams, police officers and countless support staff, every employee plays a vital role in creating exceptional experiences for students each day.
One of the latest examples of that commitment is the Transportation Department's Grow Your Own Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Training Program, an initiative designed to help current employees earn their Commercial Driver's License while creating new career opportunities and strengthening transportation services across the district.
The program reflects SBISD's commitment to opening doors to meaningful careers that make a difference. Already, the program is having an impact.
Since its launch, four employees have successfully earned their CDL licenses, with additional participants scheduled to test over the coming year. A second training class recently welcomed 10 participants, demonstrating the enthusiasm and momentum surrounding the opportunity.
For Transportation Director Wendy Hebert, the Grow Your Own CDL Program is about much more than preparing new bus drivers—it's about believing in people and helping them discover what's possible. "People say it's special here, and it truly is," Hebert said.
"This program shows what makes SBISD different. We don't just ask people to do a job, we invest in them, encourage them to grow and support them every step of the way."
While many people think of bus drivers simply as transportation providers, their impact reaches much further. Every day, school bus drivers play an essential role in the success of school operations.
Reliable transportation helps students arrive on time, supports consistent attendance and ensures students can fully participate in learning opportunities, extracurricular activities and school programs. Their work provides peace of mind for families and allows schools to begin each day ready to teach and inspire.
Nationally, school buses safely transport millions of students each school day and remain one of the safest forms of transportation for children. Behind every successful route is a dedicated professional committed to the well-being of every child on board.
For participants in the Grow Your Own CDL Program, the opportunity is also deeply personal.
"I was looking for a better opportunity for myself and my family, and this program gave me that," said Deborah Smith. "The support from our team has been incredible. Knowing I'm helping students get to and from school safely makes this work so meaningful."
"My favorite part is getting behind the wheel of a 40-foot school bus," said Jesse Alvarez. "It's an amazing feeling. Our team believed in me every step of the way and gave me the support I needed to succeed. I'm excited to continue serving our students and our community in this new role."
"I feel confident and proud," said Stephanie Luna. "SBISD believed in me, challenged me, and helped me grow. I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to make a difference and build a meaningful career."
"If I can do it, you can do it," said Pauline Rendon. "I've enjoyed every moment of this program. Earning my CDL has been an incredible opportunity for me and my family, and I'm so grateful I took the chance."
Participants receive classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training and individualized coaching as they prepare for their CDL examinations. The district's investment provides employees with the knowledge, confidence and support needed to achieve a new professional milestone while continuing to serve the SBISD community.
"This program reflects what makes SBISD such a great place to build a career," Hebert said. "We believe in our people, we support one another, and we're committed to serving our students and families. I've been here for 19 years, and I can't imagine being anywhere else."
Every licensed driver strengthens SBISD's transportation team, helping provide dependable service for students and families while supporting efficient school operations throughout the district.
Whether in the classroom, behind the wheel or in departments across the district, SBISD continues to invest in employees because when people grow, students benefit. That's what Limitless Possibilities looks like.
