Following recent budget cuts in the HISD department of transportation, the district has made an unexpected change – swapping traditional school buses for limousines.
Starting March 31, 2025, students across the district will be transported in an array of limousines which include stretch limos, convertibles, Lincolns, and even limousine buses. This unconventional switch has left students excited, parents frustrated and traffic congestion at an all-time high.
At CVHS, where students are typically dismissed from multiple locations, the influx of limousines has altered the after-school traffic flow. A mix of limos, personal vehicles, bikers, and walkers all navigate the school’s L-shaped pickup lane, resulting in plenty of honking, and occasional road rage. However, the students who previously rode the bus — now limo passengers — are unfazed by the chaos.
“It feels amazing to leave school in a limo. You feel like a celebrity. Plus, we get a special announcement over the PA system when our limo arrives,” said Susan Sandy, a senior.
Not everyone shares the same enthusiasm. Parents and carpool drivers have voiced their frustrations.
“It’s so frustrating! The limos are huge, and it’s nearly impossible for regular cars to fit through the pickup lane. Were there even budget cuts to begin with?” questioned Paula Peonie, a parent.
In response to the mixed reactions from the first day of the new limo transportation system, the district issued a statement:
“We introduced limousines to reduce the number of buses on the road, which in turn lowers carbon emissions. With more students per vehicle and additional legroom, we hope this new system will be more efficient and comfortable. Additionally, fewer vehicles mean fewer drivers needed, helping us manage costs.”
When Upstream reached out for further clarification, district representatives declined to comment. Despite the logistical headaches, many students have embraced the change on social media.
“These limos give me a reason to dress up and show up to school looking fly. I’ve gained over 100 TikTok followers from different states just because people are so intrigued by what our district is doing,” said Gracie, a junior.
Teachers have also noted some unexpected benefits.
“I used to have students come into class exhausted from long, uncomfortable bus rides. Now, they have a chance to actually relax, maybe even get some studying done before and after school,” said Ally Adams, an art teacher.
One of the biggest advantages, students say, is reliability.
“With buses, I would sometimes miss the entire first period because of a breakdown. Now, we have a repair crew on standby at all times. It’s crazy cool!” said Frankie Frannie, a freshman.
As the district continues to evaluate its experimental limo transportation system, students and staff anticipate updates in the coming months. For now, students are cruising to school in style.
This story is satire
