Newton Municipal School District Superintendent Glenda Nickson issued a letter to parents on Saturday, which was also sent to local and state media.
In the letter, Nickson said this is a difficult moment in the school district. While she said the students' safety is important, she did not mention any additional safety measures that will be implemented.
Thursday's incident was the second time in 2021 that a student brought a gun on campus. The previous incident was in April 2021 and was only confirmed after the Appeal forced the district to confirm the incident more than 10 days after it happened.
"Please be assured that the security of our campuses and the well-being of our students are our top priorities. We sincerely appreciate the efforts of everyone who played a role in ensuring the safety of our students," Nickson said.
The letter does not mention if any measures such as metal detectors, backpack checks or any additional safety measures will be implemented. A board policy passed in 2013 says the superintendent has the authority to implement metal detectors, video surveillance and other measures to help improve the safety of the campuses.
Here is the full letter sent Saturday morning:
Greetings NMSD Family:
Let me take this time to speak directly to our parents and guardians. This is a difficult moment for our Tiger Family. However, we are encouraged and standing strong with much prayer and support from our families, friends, and communities.
On behalf of the Newton Municipal School District, we thank the administrators, teachers, and staff who responded selflessly to protect our students during the incident at Newton Elementary School (NES) on Thursday, September 30, 2021. We also thank the local first responders for reacting immediately. Please be assured that the security of our campuses and the well-being of our students are our top priorities. We sincerely appreciate the efforts of everyone who played a role in ensuring the safety of our students.
The NES Faculty and Staff (Only) will return to campus on Monday, October 4, 2021, to prepare for our students. Classes will resume on Tuesday, October 5, 2021, and counseling services will be available on all campuses. Please continue to pray for our great Tiger Nation as we move forward and provide the needed support to our students, staff, and parents. We are BETTER, STRONGER, TOGETHER!
Respectfully,
Dr. Glenda Nickson
Superintendent
