Parent information night as students return to Santa Fe ISD

The Santa Fe Independent School District conducted an informational meeting for parents of children who will be attending classes starting on Monday, Aug. 20. It was the first time that FOX 26 News camera were allowed inside Santa Fe High School since the deadly shooting in May that claimed the lives of several students and two teachers.

 

The meeting agenda included security upgrades and new programs added to the district.

Police staff has increased to 14 full-time officers. Door locks have been installed inside all of the schools and a new fire alarm system is in place in Santa Fe High School that features panic buttons, which will be phased in for other campuses at a later date.

One of the most important components of the meeting was the demonstration of how the metal detectors will operate. They will be installed in all of the schools.

Dress code enforcement and the new mental health and wellness plans were also discussed at the meeting.

“The biggest changes I think the district is making and that I think is going to make the most impact is the mental health availability, the safe school ambassadors, and just supporting the kids through this," said parent Melanie Johnson. "Trying to create a better culture of empathy and compassion.“

Volunteer opportunities are also being offered to get parents involved in the district.