WISD Names Director of Transportation

Ryan Ward, Director of Transportation

Waxahachie Independent School District is pleased to announce the hiring of Mr. Ryan Ward as the district’s new Transportation Director.

Mr. Ward brings more than 20 years of experience in transportation, operations, training, and leadership, along with a strong commitment to student safety and operational excellence.

Mr. Ward has served as Transportation Supervisor for WISD since March 2023, overseeing daily department operations and supervising 54 bus drivers and support staff. His responsibilities have included recruiting, interviewing, and hiring transportation personnel, managing payroll, coordinating day-to-day logistics, and developing standard operating procedures. He has also played a key role in evaluating drivers, supporting training efforts, overseeing crossing guards, and assisting with departmental budgeting decisions.

Before joining WISD, Mr. Ward dedicated six years to Red Oak Independent School District, where he began as a bus driver and advanced to Bus Driver Instructor. In that role, he trained new drivers to obtain their Commercial Driver Licenses (CDL), maintained driver certifications, assisted with recruitment and hiring, and conducted evaluations for drivers and coaching staff. He also managed safety reporting, reviewed incident records, and worked closely with campus administrators on student transportation matters. Earlier in his career, Mr. Ward worked as a Serac (Filler) Operator with Danone Wave, where he developed skills in equipment operation, troubleshooting, and production processes. He also spent over a decade with Frito-Lay as a Site Expert Trainer, where he provided instruction and coaching to employees, supported production operations, and contributed to environmental sustainability initiatives.

Mr. Ward is currently pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in Business at Navarro College and previously attended East Texas A&M University. He holds multiple certifications, including a Commercial Driver License (Class B), School Bus Driver Instructor certification, Entry Level Driver Training (EDLT), and several Texas Association for Pupil Transportation (TAPT) certifications in driver record assessment, communication skills, and business procedures.

He is recognized for his exceptional leadership and training abilities, strong organizational and communication skills, and his adaptability in fast-paced environments.

Mr. Ward’s extensive experience and dedication to transportation safety and efficiency make him an outstanding choice for this leadership roles. We are confident he will continue to strengthen and enhance the services provided to our students and community.

Ryan Kahlden
Chief Financial Officer

Mr. Ward has led the Transportation Department since January and has demonstrated exceptional leadership. His commitment to serving the students and staff of Waxahachie ISD has helped ensure that the highest quality of services is consistently provided. I am pleased to welcome him officially to our leadership team and look forward to continued collaboration in the future.

Becky McCutchen
Superintendent

Ryan and his wife of 27 years, LaKeshia, are proud parents of two sons and twin daughters, all seniors. WISD is excited for Mr. Ward’s appointment, as this reflects our continued commitment to excellence in student transportation and operational leadership.