DeSoto ISD Implements New School Safety Measures

In light of Thursday’s incident at DeSoto High School, DeSoto ISD has announced that the district is transitioning to clear backpacks for the remainder of the 24-25 academic year.

“The decision to implement clear backpacks is another layer of safety in district schools,” said DeSoto ISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Usamah Rodgers.

Another security measure the district has implemented is that uniforms were made mandatory for scholars this year.

The measure was created in order for security personnel and staff to quickly distinguish students from visitors on campus.

“Clear backpacks, like uniforms, help us identify a concern quickly and are a deterrent to certain behaviors curbing concerns before a larger concern develops,” said DeSoto ISD Chief of Maintenance and Operations James Thomas.

Additionally, the district reinstated the policy that prohibits the use of backpacks before extended breaks and during the final two weeks of school, effective Monday, May 13, 2024.

The district will still allow small Ziploc sandwiches or pencil bags for sanitary care and or personal hygiene items. 

Heightened security measures at secondary campuses, with a particular focus on DeSoto High School (DHS) are also being implemented.

Students at DHS will undergo enhanced security protocols during transitions, including metal detector screenings and backpack searches upon arrival.

The district’s head of security emphasized the intensification of backpack inspections, with security personnel now conducting more thorough examinations of backpack contents.

The district announced the measures after a non-district student was able to get into DHS with a concealed weapon.

The alleged incident occurred on school property during an altercation with another student that was broken up by security personnel and school administrators.

“Seeing what has been happening in schools across the country served as the impetus for district leaders to come together to deliberate on this very important change on behalf of our scholars and staff members,” said Rogers.

For more information about the new security measures visit DeSotoISD.org.

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