Lubbock ISD Reiterates Zero-Tolerance Policy After Campus Scare

Lubbock Independent School District officials addressed a reported threat concerning Atkins Middle School on Thursday. Subsequent investigations by authorities concluded that the threat lacked credibility.

Brian Ellyson, the district's director of student and parent resolution, emphasized that both administrators and law enforcement approach every report with a sense of urgency.

Ellyson emphasized the responsibility of ensuring both the education and safety of children, stating, “You know that’s our job, to make sure our kids are educated and our kids are safe.”

District officials reported that the threat emerged during a dialogue between a student from Atkins and a student attending Monterey High School. The Lubbock Independent School District Police Department conducted an investigation and determined there was no evidence that the threat posed an immediate danger.

Police Chief Eric Tijerina states that officers are ready to take swift action when issues emerge.

“We will respond immediately,” stated Tijerina. “Upon arrival on campus, we will collaborate with the administration to evaluate any immediate risks to students and subsequently initiate an investigation into the threat.”

According to Ellyson, the district adheres to a formal threat assessment protocol mandated by the state of Texas. The evaluation process assesses whether a situation is low, moderate, or high risk and involves communication with families.

Ellyson stated, “That’s going to assist us in assessing whether it constitutes a low, moderate, or high-level threat.” “This includes the involvement of family members.”

According to district policy, any threats made on campus are subject to a strict zero-tolerance policy. Tijerina indicated that criminal charges could be considered, contingent upon the specifics of the allegation.

“We frequently utilize several charges related to threats,” Tijerina stated, referencing the terroristic threat provision under the Texas Penal Code and violations of the Texas Education Code concerning threats to introduce firearms on school premises.

District officials highlighted the critical role of parent communication in ongoing investigations. Administrators will promptly inform families directly impacted once they have collected verified information.

Ellyson emphasized the necessity of collaboration between law enforcement and the communications department.

Tijerina emphasized the importance of parents maintaining up-to-date contact information to ensure timely receipt of alerts and notifications from the district.

District leaders emphasized their commitment to campus safety, even though they deemed Thursday's threat to be false. Officials have emphasized that the threat assessment process is essential to safeguarding students and staff across Lubbock ISD schools.

‍