Police and sheriff’s officers were more visible at local schools in the wake of a Texas tragedy this week.
Superintendents at Taylor and Hutto independent school districts updated their communities on law enforcement presence on their grounds as each district finished their final week of the 2021-22 school year. The moves were in response to a school shooting in Uvalde.
On Tuesday, May 24, an 18-year-old, Salvador Ramos, opened fire at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde and reportedly killed at least 19 children and two teachers. The event is considered the worst school shooting since the 26 deaths at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, in 2012.
Superintendent Devin Padavil sent a message to families and staff Wednesday, May 25, informing them that the Taylor Police Department would have a noticeable presence at campuses amid student celebrations last week.
“We understand that parents may be nervous about sending their child to school after yesterday’s tragic event in Uvalde,” said Padavil. “Instead of canceling events or limiting the number of parents, we are making sure our entrances are strongly monitored, and a police officer is present for extra support. This is not to cause any alarm, but to provide you a sense of reassurance.”
The superintendent added that the district routinely checks safety procedures at each school. Principals conduct safety drills for staff and student to practice for emergencies.
“The safety and security of our students and staff is our highest priority,” said Padvavil, “and we take the responsibility of caring for them very seriously.”
At Hutto ISD, Superintendent Celina Estrada Thomas expressed her deepest condolences Tuesday to the families and staff affected by the tragedy at Uvalde.
“With three days of school remaining, we want to reassure you that while what happened in Uvalde is weighing heavily on our hearts, our staff, Hutto ISD Police, campus safety officers, and our city and county law enforcement partners will remain vigilant and maintain a visible presence to keep the children you entrust us with safe,” said Thomas. “Consistent with our standard response protocols, all exterior doors and front doors will remain locked and entry will be controlled by the front office personnel. If you plan on attending end-of-year celebrations, please be prepared to check in and provide identification.”
Thomas added that in two weeks, administrators will be training with the “I Love You Guys” Foundation, which hosts programs for crisis response and post-crisis reunification.
“Hippo Nation welcomes the foundation which was created by parents who have experienced terrific loss,” said Thomas. “We look forward to learning prevention and intervention practices from them. This effort represents our ongoing commitment, and promise to you, to care for those you love most.”
Elsewhere in Williamson County, Sheriff Mike Gleason took measures to increase law enforcement presence at educational facilities.
“Our agency has taking an initiative to place all of our detectives and traffic deputies at schools throughout the community,” said Morgan Spencer, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office community engagement coordinator. “Deputies will provide additional security and will proactively monitor any suspicious activity.”
