I have no words for the heartbreak I’m feeling as I read updates from the tragedy at Robb Elementary School in Texas.  Coming together during the toughest of times is what has been our strength as a community and country and we need that more than ever now.  

Over the last two years, I know the focus of our health and safety-related communications have centered around the pandemic and our efforts to get kids back to full-time and comprehensive instruction.  During that same time period, we have continued to be very busy upgrading the safety and security elements on our campuses.  

In the past two years alone, we have spent more than $1.5 million on school safety enhancements and upgrades.  Specifically, we have installed an additional 200 cameras increasing our total number to more than 400 cameras districtwide; expanded our fencing and gates while reducing access points; completed an exhaustive school safety review by the National School Safety Center; and expanded our comprehensive approach to mental health services.  You can visit this LINK to see the list of 21 significant school safety measures we have invested in over the past few years.  These efforts, along with our comprehensive social-emotional and staff emergency training systems, are all geared toward remaining vigilant and proactive regarding all potential emergencies.  

In addition to all of the current safety measures we have in place, the Board of Education is seriously considering a Bond measure (with no tax rate increase) for this Fall to continue to grow and enhance our security efforts.  The potential project plan has approximately $5M dedicated to infrastructure relating to campus safety. 

We will continue to work together, support one another, and get through challenging circumstances.  Take care and be well.