As the school year begins, several different safety updates designed to make the campus a more secure and welcoming place are being noticed by the students at Guyer High School. From enhanced security cameras to updated emergency procedures, these changes are part of an ongoing effort to prioritize students’ safety and well-being.
Some of the biggest updates are the installation of new security cameras, greater officer presence throughout the school, and increased hallway monitoring. This enables staff to keep a better eye on what’s going on throughout the school, including entrances and exits, to prevent incidents and ensure nobody is coming inside or out unless given permission.
“The state of Texas passed laws that we have to be much more vigilant and careful about people being able to enter the school not at the approved place- the front office,” said geometry teacher William Wenger. “So now, it is really important for teachers to make sure that all exterior doors are always locked, not propped open, so that only official people can come in,” Wenger continued.
Better visibility of what’s going on around campus assists administrators in responding appropriately and quickly when something comes up. Students are also restricted from areas of the building that are unsupervised.
Coming into this school year, drills for storms, fires, and intruder or outside threats to the school have been improved by using stronger communication and live feedback.
Vape detectors in the restrooms are an additional important safety feature implemented this school year. Students caught with or using vapes on or within 300 feet of school property can be placed in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program. The health and wellness of students are the top priority, and by installing vape detectors, administrators can enforce the policies set in place regarding this issue.
In addition, we have our ID policy that has stayed in place since last year. Students must carry an ID with them at all times to ensure that only authorized individuals are on campus.
“ All of these measures have one goal: keeping students safe so they can focus on learning and enjoying their time at school,” said Assistant Principal Mr. Bonner.
Although these protocols have been placed with good intentions, not all students take them this way.
“I feel like nobody really takes it serious anymore, even though there’s been so many serious cases now. I just kind of feel irritated that it’s taken seriously but not seriously enough. I feel like they’re there to just pass a check off,” said sophomore Chimdike Okere, after being asked about the new implications.
As far as how safe students feel with each other, Guyer ensures that students are respected, supported, and protected both inside and outside the classroom.
“Socially, I feel like there’s an opposite in decline as far as safety. With the safety regulations that have been set up recently, it kind of forces you to communicate and forces that face-to-face action to be required,” Okere said.
A lot of school welfare progress has been seen this year in the way that drills have been well executed, strong relationships are being built between the security team and students, and in the benefits of better visibility in hallways.
“Discipline trends are improving, and students are showing more responsibility in making safe choices. We’re very proud of how our student body has stepped up. Your actions make a real difference in keeping Guyer a place where everyone feels protected and supported,” Bonner stated.
With these efforts, Guyer is providing a safe environment that isn’t just about doors and cameras, but the people. The school is creating a space where students can feel secure, connected, and confident, allowing education to remain the top focus for students.
