ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) - Thousands of Ector County ISD students headed back to the classroom on Tuesday morning, marking the official start of the 2026-2027 school year.

At the ECISD bus barn early Tuesday, the pre-dawn darkness was filled with the rumble of engines and flashing yellow lights as dozens of school buses prepared to roll out.

Drivers conducted final safety checks before leaving the depot to pick up students for their first day back.