Introduction to School Safety Concerns
Houston ISD has seen a significant increase in instances of guns being found on campuses, with 42 students caught with firearms this school year, compared to 18 last year. This has prompted the district to take action to improve school safety.
Increased Gun Incidents on Campuses
According to state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles, the number of guns found on campuses has more than doubled compared to last year. This increase has led to a sense of urgency in addressing the issue and finding ways to prevent such incidents in the future.
Installation of Weapons Detection Systems
To combat the rise in gun incidents, the district is working to install weapons detection systems in every high school. The installation process has begun, with Lamar High School being the first campus to receive the system, followed by Northside and Bellaire high schools. The district has prioritized campuses where weapons have been found in the past.
Disciplinary Actions and Trends
Despite the increase in gun incidents, the district has seen a decline in overall disciplinary actions taken against students. There has been a 20% decrease in instances of in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, and Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DEAP) referrals. Around 18,700 students have received disciplinary action this year, compared to 23,700 last year.
Breakdown of Disciplinary Actions
The sharpest decline was seen in the number of students being sent to DEAP, with 969 students sent this year, compared to 1,933 last year. Expulsions, however, have increased slightly, with 37 students expelled this year, compared to 34 last year.
Decrease in Misbehavior Instances
The district has also seen a decrease in specific instances of misbehavior on campuses. Students are skipping class significantly less this year, with around 2,100 students caught skipping, compared to nearly 3,900 last year. Drug-related violations have decreased by nearly 20%, with 1,300 instances this year, compared to 1,600 last year. Terroristic threats have also decreased, with 141 instances this year, compared to 176 last year.
Conclusion
The increase in gun incidents on Houston ISD campuses is a concerning trend that requires immediate attention and action. The district’s efforts to install weapons detection systems and address disciplinary actions are steps in the right direction. While there is still work to be done, the decline in overall disciplinary actions and specific instances of misbehavior suggests that the district is moving in the right direction. It is essential for the district to continue to prioritize school safety and work towards creating a secure and supportive learning environment for all students.
