Royal ISD police chief shares suggestions for improving campus security

By George Slaughter, News Editor
Posted 9/15/22

The May 24 mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde has put security at the top of school-related issues. Marilyn Vaughn, Royal ISD police chief, offered a vision of the changes she would like to see if voters approve a bond expected to be put on the May 23 ballot.

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Royal ISD police chief shares suggestions for improving campus security

Posted

The May 24 mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde has put security at the top of school-related issues. Marilyn Vaughn, Royal ISD police chief, offered a vision of the changes she would like to see if voters approve a bond expected to be put on the May 23 ballot.

Vaughn said a recent US Secret Service analysis of plots against schools shared key findings. She said targeted school violence is preventable when communities identify warning signs and intervene. In every case, she said, a tragedy was averted by community members coming forward when they see worrisome behaviors.

When possible, Vaughn said, schools and communities must partner to identify and intervene with students who need help before their behavior escalates to something criminal.

As for project suggestions that might appear on a bond initiative, Vaughn spoke of improvements to infrastructure, facility upgrades and programs.

On infrastructure, Vaughn called for adding an additional security fencing. In this way, safety would be improved by ensuring clear, protective boundaries for Royal ISD property.

Vaughn called for the district to buy additional security cameras and upgrade software equipment. She also called for upgrading the districts staff and student identification system.

She called for the district to buy additional alarms systems and upgrade the existing alarm systems.

Vaughn recommended upgrading the districts communication equipment, including radios and emergency notification systems.

On facilities upgrades, Vaughn called for installing film on all exterior windows and doors, making them shatterproof. She also called for upgrading of school access points, doors and door locks. Doing these things will reinforce and limit areas of access to visitors.

On programs, Vaughn asked for planning school safety programs and training for them. She also called for programs to manage emergencies through mental health personnel. She called for officers trained and certified as mental health officers to work with the districts social emotional learning director and counselors.

A growing student population also means more traffic. Towards this end, Vaughn suggested adding an additional road to alleviate traffic congestion, therefore making it safer for students, staff and the community.

Royal ISD, security, bond