Houston area schools have faced a myriad of threats in the last few days. An Alief ISD’s Elsik High School student was found carrying a knife, a gun was found at Spring ISD, a bomb threat was issued on the Bellaire High School campus followed by a lockdown, and a Houston ISD was stabbed at Sterling High School after a fight.
In light of these events, Spring Branch ISD sent a letter to the district’s parents on Sept. 16, asking them to speak with their children and reminding them of the consequences of making a threat against a district, school, or individual: a felony charge.
In recent days, there have been numerous cases of threats against schools and districts in the Houston area and across the nation, including Spring Branch ISD.
“In recent days, there have been numerous cases of threats against schools and districts in the Houston area and across the nation, including Spring Branch ISD. These are considered terroristic threats, and they are not jokes,” the letter said. “They are very serious matters which endanger the lives of others, waste valuable resources, and could potentially cause mass panic in our communities.”
The letter also said the Spring Branch ISD and the SBISD Police Department will prosecute anyone who threatens the safety of staff and students “to the fullest extent of the law,” reiterating that a conviction for a third-degree felony, including terroristic threats that places people in the risk of bodily injury, in Texas may result in up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
SBISD will “discipline” students in accordance with its code of conduct if any student is charged with making such threats, including expulsion, shift to the district’s Alternative Education Program (DAEP), limited or no use of district technology or personal cell phone, campus or district events, extracurricular activities, and/or the requirement to use a clear backpack.
The letter reminded students of the prohibition on carrying weapons to school, even if it is a toy, comprising airsoft, pellet guns, BB guns, and water guns.
“Safety and security is everyone’s responsibility. Take this opportunity to talk with your child not only about the severe consequences of making threats but also about the important role they play in school safety and encourage them to follow our “See Something-Say Something” protocol,” the letter read further.
The school district also encouraged using the anonymous reporting link or calling the SBISD Police Department at 713-984-9805.
