Houston ISD police chief says there are active discussions about metal detectors in schools after the stabbing incident

HOUSTON – A day after a student was stabbed in a fight with another student at Houston ISD’s Sterling High School, HISD Police Chief Shamara Garner spoke about the district’s safety protocols and what they are doing to protect children.

“I know families across the country are concerned about the safety of their children when they are in school. Here in Houston, recent events, weapons found on campus and threats on social media have raised concerns,” Garner said.

She said the department shares parents' concerns and takes every threat it hears about seriously.

“We take every threat seriously and assume a threat is real until we can prove otherwise,” she said.

She added that every threat is thoroughly investigated and the department is prepared to take legal action if necessary.

When asked about metal detectors on HISD campuses, Garner said that while there are currently no metal detectors on district campuses, there are ongoing discussions about it.

“We are constantly evaluating and revising tools that can help keep students safe,” she said, but also made it clear that not every single tool can ensure student safety.

Garner said additional officers were deployed at Sterling High School following Wednesday's stabbing and that although there are no permanent metal detectors on school grounds, metal detectors were used.

“Principals have the ability, under school policy, to use wands in the event of violence on campus. In particularly high-risk situations, they have the authority to do so,” she said.