2023 School Safety Updates

James Thomas, DeSoto ISD’s Chief of Maintenance and Operations, is proactive in ensuring a safe learning environment.

“My primary focus has always been ensuring children feel safe when they come to school,” he said. Since joining DeISD in March 2022, Thomas began regular training for district security staff and school resource officers.

“I always want the best for the communities that I serve,” Thomas said. “Minor adjustments went a long way in building the confidence of district security staff. It’s important they know the magnitude of how their presence optimizes students’ learning experiences. When students feel physically safe, they are empowered to feel safe as they learn and interact with their peers.”

Backpacks

DeSoto ISD will allow students to wear backpacks. However, before major breaks and holidays, the district will ask students to not carry backpacks as an additional security measure.

Body Cameras

DeSoto ISD security guards and school resource officers will be required to wear body cameras any time they are interacting with students and staff. The devices can be remotely activated for supervisory monitoring and training purposes.

House Bill 3

HB3 requires schools to have one armed staff member per campus. Security guards and school resource officers will be trained and armed to meet the requirements.

Panic Alert Button

The 2023 legislative session requires schools to have a panic button in every classroom as an emergency notification tool. The district is reviewing a number of options to address this requirement, including the provision of ID badges that feature a panic button and will be worn as a lanyard.

Uniform-Based Dress Code

DeSoto ISD will enact a uniform-based dress code for the 2023-24 year which consists of a solid-color polo-style shirt or button-down shirts and solid-color uniform bottoms. Uniforms allow for quick and easy identification of intruders and supports the district’s overall safety and security efforts.