LUBBOCK, Texas — Safety is at the top of mind for Lubbock schools this week after local campuses received violent threats. While multiple law enforcement agencies are investigating the threats, EverythingLubbock.com spoke with Rise Academy Charter School about ongoing safety precautions they’ve taken as a public school after seeing violence on campuses around the country.
Since this summer, Rise Academy added multiple safety measures to its campus. They currently have panic buttons, armed faculty and cameras outside each of their buildings, among other measures.
“We just have to remain vigilant about this, that security is paramount,” Founder and Director at Rise Academy, Richard Baumgartner said. “Just because we’re in Lubbock or just because we’re in a certain part of town, doesn’t guarantee that this kind of thing will not happen. It’s just the times we’re in.”
The school was able to increase its safety precautions with the help of the SAFE Grant, which was part of the $800 million given to Texas schools in the 88th Texas Legislative Session to support school systems in meeting the adopted School Safety Standards.