School leaders reflect on three incidents of gun violence involving North Texas students in three weeks

What was once unthinkable has sadly become a question of “how bad was it this time?” in North Texas schools. Over the span of about three weeks, there have been at least three gun incidents involving high school students, highlighting a concerning trend.

While conflicts like fist fights or arguments over personal matters are not uncommon in high school, the presence of guns in these situations is alarming. School leaders are grappling with the challenge of keeping students safe and are searching for solutions.

Felicia Donaldson, Superintendent of Everman ISD, emphasizes the need for constant vigilance and preparation among school staff and students. Despite only being in her role for less than three years, Donaldson has already faced threats of a mass shooting on her campus, underscoring the urgency of addressing school safety concerns.

Despite implementing various measures such as metal detectors, protective film, and clear backpacks, schools continue to face the threat of guns. In some Texas districts, the idea of arming teachers has gained traction, with programs like the one initiated by Jeff Sellers gaining popularity in rural areas.

However, not all districts are willing to pursue this approach, as voiced by John Kuhn, Superintendent of Mineral Wells ISD. The increasing frequency of such incidents has prompted schools to explore ways to mitigate the threat, with a commitment to collaboration and action.

While school safety experts acknowledge the difficulty of completely preventing such incidents, they stress the importance of preparedness. Superintendents express their determination to work together despite the challenges, acknowledging that their confidence can be shaken in the face of ongoing threats.