KATY [March 5, 2018] – They are known as three individuals who personify the history of care Katy Independent School District is known for. The names of Anna Baker, Lester Floyd Reinecker II and Cynthia “Cyndy” Self will now be on display at one of the three Katy ISD transportation centers. “These namesakes are not only known as bus drivers who transported thousands of children to and from school every day, they were mentors, teachers, leaders and friends,” said Dr. Bill Wood, executive director of the Transportation Department. “Together these individuals have served Katy ISD for nearly 90 years,” added Dr. Wood.
“It’s nice to be part of something that impacts so many people,” said Tammy Powell, a school bus driver of 17 years. “This ceremony means that in all these years, what we do has an effect. I am proud to be part of a ceremony that reminds us of the efforts of those who came before us.” added Powell.
Anna Baker became the first woman school bus driver for Katy ISD in 1955. She loved driving teams and other school groups to out-of-town games and activities. She arrived early, and made sure the bus was clean before anyone boarded. In 1959, she transported local fans to see the Katy Tigers win their first state championship.
In 1970, Coach Lester Reinecker II began teaching at Katy Junior High. Over the course of several years, Reinecker taught and coached at Katy High and Taylor High. In 1983, he left coaching to assume the role of assistant director of transportation. He taught bus driver certification classes, gave regular workshops and took pride in helping others. He loved his role as a supervisor because he was able to interact with kids and adults.
Cyndy Self’s compassion and love for special education students led to an annual tradition that is kept alive today. She organized a trip for students with special needs to attend the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Barbeque Cook-Off. What started as a small group of kids and teachers in the eighties, has grown to a yearly tradition known as “Kid’s Friday.”
Katy ISD has 610 buses and more than 655 employees. Drivers average 15 years of experience. Photos of Dedication Ceremony.