Ensuring the Safety and Security of Our Students: An Important Update from the Superintendent
Dear CISD Families,
As we gear up for another exciting academic year, we wanted to take a moment to discuss the safety measures we have put in place to ensure the well-being of our students and employees. Your child's safety is a top priority, and we are committed to maintaining a secure learning environment for all our learners.
In accordance with the newly passed Texas House Bill 3 (HB3) requirements, our district has worked with our local cities and agencies including the City of Coppell, the City of Irving, the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, as well as local security companies to enhance school safety across our district and comply with the requirements of HB3. One of the key provisions of this bill mandates the presence of an armed security officer at every school, and we are fully dedicated to implementing this requirement, while also considering the unique needs of our school community.
We will be working closely with these agencies to hire and train the very best School Resource Officers (SROs), School Resource Deputies (SRDs) and security officers for each of our campus locations. We currently have six SROs that serve our schools in the City of Coppell and two SRDs that serve our schools in Dallas/Cypress Waters (Richard J. Lee Elementary and CMS West) and in Irving (Canyon Ranch Elementary and Valley Ranch Elementary). We will work with the City of Coppell as we add eight new SROs, and with our other agency partners to add two new officers for our campuses in Dallas/Cypress Waters and Irving.
Rest assured that our approach is balanced, thoughtful and focused on the safety of our students, teachers and staff, and community above all else. The presence of these armed security officers will be part of a comprehensive safety strategy that includes a variety of measures, including:
- Access Control: We have implemented strict access control measures to ensure that only authorized individuals are permitted on school grounds. This includes enhanced visitor check-in procedures and secure entrances.
- Resistant Film on Windows and Doors: This summer we completed the project to add resistant film to the windows and doors at every Coppell ISD campus and building.
- Crossing Guards: The district is committed to providing crossing guards at all our designated crossing locations near our campuses ensuring safety as students walk to and from our schools.
- Cameras on School Buses: In order to enhance safety and security, CISD will be installing three cameras on all buses with installation expected to be complete by the end of September.
- Emergency Preparedness: Our staff has undergone extensive training to respond effectively to a range of emergency situations. We conduct regular drills to ensure everyone is well-prepared.
- Counseling and Support Services: We understand that the presence of security measures can sometimes create anxiety for students. Our dedicated counseling and support teams are available to provide assistance and guidance as needed.
- Community Engagement: We are committed to fostering open communication and collaboration with parents, guardians, and community members. Your input is invaluable, and we encourage you to share your thoughts, suggestions and concerns with the district.
- Ongoing Evaluation: We will continually assess the effectiveness of our safety measures and make necessary adjustments to ensure that our students remain safe while feeling comfortable and secure.
Our ultimate goal is to create an environment where students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. We believe that these safety measures, alongside the presence of armed security officers, will contribute to a sense of safety and well-being for our entire school community.
We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of safety and security, and we look forward to working closely with all key stakeholders to achieve this shared goal.
Thank you for your ongoing support, and we eagerly anticipate a successful and safe school year ahead.
Sincerely,
Dr. Brad Hunt