HOUSTON – One day after a student was stabbed in a fight with another student at Houston ISD’s Sterling High School, HISD Police Chief Shamara Garner spoke about the district’s security protocols and what they are doing to keep kids safe.
“I know as a nation families are worried about their children’s safety when they are in school. Here in Houston, recent events, weapons found on campus, threats on social media have caused concern,” Garner said.
She said the department shares parent’s concerns and take every threat they hear about seriously.
“We take every threat seriously, we assume a threat is real until we can prove otherwise,” she said.
She went on to say every threat is thoroughly investigated and the department is prepared to take legal action when necessary.
When asked about metal detectors on HISD campuses, Garner said while none are currently stationed at district campuses, there is an active conversation about them.
“We are always evaluating and reevaluating tools that can help keep students safe,” she said while also explaining that not any one tool will ensure student safety.
Garner said there were extra officers at Sterling High School after the stabbing Wednesday and even though permanent metal detectors are not at campuses, metal detector wanding was used.
“Principals have the ability per board policy to use wanding if violence has occurred on the campus, in heightened situations they have the authority to do so,” she said.