Today, the Austin Independent School District (Austin ISD) emphasized its commitment to school safety during a community event. The district is seeking support from the community to maintain safe learning environments.
Superintendent Matias Segura addressed the increasing concern over school safety, noting that threats of violence, often spread via social media, have become a national issue affecting many school districts, including Austin ISD. "While the vast majority of threats are deemed non-credible, these incidents have a profound impact on our students, staff and families," Segura stated.
Segura stressed that even perceived pranks or jokes involving threats are taken seriously and investigated by both school administration and local law enforcement. Those responsible for making or spreading such threats face disciplinary action or prosecution. He urged parents to remind their children about the seriousness of these matters and to report any concerning comments or social media posts immediately to a trusted adult.
To assist parents in having these difficult conversations with their children, Austin ISD has provided resources. If any child is struggling with these issues, parents are encouraged to contact their school's front office for counseling support.
In his closing remarks, Segura reaffirmed the district's dedication to creating welcoming and inclusive spaces where students can fully engage in learning. "Thank you for your continued support of those efforts and of our Austin ISD community," he concluded.
The message was also delivered in Spanish to ensure broader community reach.
"En los últimos años, la conversación sobre la seguridad escolar se ha intensificado y lamentablemente las amenazas de violencia... se han convertido en un fenómeno nacional," Segura noted in his Spanish address. He reiterated similar points regarding the serious consequences of making or spreading threats and emphasized reporting them immediately.
Segura concluded both messages by expressing gratitude for the community's ongoing support and underscoring Austin ISD's commitment to student safety and well-being.
Sincerely,
Matias Segura, PE, MBA
Superintendent
Austin ISD