Students at Bulverde’s Hill Country College Preparatory High School returned to their classrooms under tight security Monday as school reopened for the first time since a student shot a teacher then killed himself on March 30.
The teacher was hospitalized but Comal ISD has not issued any updates about her condition or provided any other details, including the name of the alleged shooter.
Comal ISD posted images on social media of elementary school children holding handmade signs supporting the ‘Falcon Family.’
“Today we’re thinking of our students and staff at Hill Country College Preparatory High School (HCCPHS) as they return to campus,” the district said in a separate post. “The Falcon Family is strong, and we’re proud of the way this community continues to care for and support one another.”
Things weren’t as warm and fuzzy for Falcons on the ground.
Sunday, parents received a lengthy email from district Supt. John Chapman detailing strict new security protocols and procedures.
“This past has been one of the hardest we have faced, and we have thought deeply about how to welcome your students back in a way that is safe, intentional, and filled with the same care and commitment that has always defined this community,” he said.
Changes include additional law-enforcement presence on campus and upgraded, silent panic-alert technology that allows teachers to notify authorities in the event of any concern.
Students can no longer bring backpacks or any bags to school. The only items allowed are school-issued laptops, chargers, notebooks with paper and writing utensils.
Students who bring lunchboxes are required to drop them off immediately upon entering the building. Personal hygiene items must be stored with the school nurse.
“We know this is an adjustment and we appreciate your cooperation in helping us make this transaction as smooth as possible for everyone,” Chapman said. “We also want to be transparent with you. The incident on March 30 remains an active investigation and out of respect for that process and those involved we’re not able to share specific details related to law-enforcement matters at this time.”
Classroom spaces where the incident occurred will remain closed for the remainder of the school year.
“We understand that ‘normal’ will look and feel different for awhile, and that is okay,” he said after outlining plans for students’ and teachers’ first day back at school. “A great deal of grace will be extended to both students and staff as we each navigate what we can carry on any given day. There is no expectation that anyone will simply be fine, but there is a commitment that we will walk through this together.”
There kids and this isn’t a prison…. Fund some damn mental healthcare and give the kids their backpacks and lunchboxs back