DeSoto ISD canceled Friday’s classes following an incident at one of the district’s middle schools.
Several videos circulated on social media this week showing a teacher in an altercation with students, KXAS-TV (NBC5) reported. In one video, a teacher is seen throwing chairs and bleeding from the head.
DeSoto police said on Facebook that the videos were taken at DeSoto West Middle School on Wednesday and that the department was investigating the incident. There was an increased police presence at the school Thursday, police said.
In a statement on the district’s website, interim superintendent Larry Lewis said that Friday will serve as a planning day for teachers that will focus on updates to campus safety and security meant to “reset culture and behavior on campuses.”
Changes implemented on DeSoto campuses after spring break — which is next week — will include increased staffing in hallways and common areas. Also, students will no longer be able to use cellphones or headphones during the day.
The district’s dress code is being reviewed ahead of the upcoming school year. Student profiles are also in the process of being reviewed to “assess appropriate placement or removal from the district pending academic and disciplinary records,” Lewis said.
Mandatory meetings for parents about the new security and safety measures will be held the week after spring break, Lewis said.
“DeSoto ISD is intent on re-establishing a culture and climate that emphasizes safety, security and educational excellence,” he said. “We thank our staff, parents and families in advance for your support of this effort as we prepare for a better, brighter future in DeSoto ISD.”
