Aug. 16, 2022
A Message for DeSoto ISD Parents and School Community
This morning, the DeSoto Police Department received a notification regarding campus safety concerns at Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy (KJTMA).
An unknown person contacted DeSoto PD Dispatch, and based on the threat, police deployed officers to KJTMA and other district campuses out of an abundance of caution. Those campuses included: Cockrell Hill, Woodridge, and The Meadows.
While more immediate notification was sent to parents at KJTMA, subsequent notification was distributed districtwide as it became available. While we understand the concerns raised in relation to the order in which information was disseminated, it was important for District officials to gather accurate and up-to-date facts to inform messaging.
Upon awareness of these concerns, all campuses identified in this matter were placed on a temporary hold out of an abundance of caution.
DeSoto PD solicited the assistance of Lancaster PD and the Dallas Sheriff's Department to support the review of the campuses.
Please note that no immediate threat of danger was ever apparent in the District's review of this matter and no credible threats were identified following the conclusion of law enforcement's investigation of these concerns.
At 9:20 a.m., the campuses were released to normal activity. Additionally, administrators have been deployed to campuses and, out of an abundance of caution, the District will provide a heightened patrol throughout the remainder of the day.
DeSoto ISD Counseling Services are available at the Katherine Johnson campus to provide social-emotional counseling and resources to those who may need assistance processing today's events. Other students and families who may need assistance processing today’s events may reach out to DeSoto ISD Counseling Services at 214.223.6666 ext. 8214.
The District also has a partnership with Care Solace which can help families quickly find mental health or counseling options aligned to families’ unique needs, regardless of circumstances. Care Solace’s support is completely confidential and free to DeSoto ISD students, staff, and their families.
If you would like to use Care Solace to help you find a provider:
Call 888-515-0595 available 24/7/365 in any language
Visit www.caresolace.com/desoto and either search on your own OR click “Book Appointment” for assistance by video chat, email or phone.
As a district, we are grateful for the proactive planning and work related to campus safety and security that provided DeSoto ISD an opportunity to respond quickly and thoroughly to these incidents.
DeSoto ISD prioritizes the safety and security of our students, staff, and schools. As a reminder, if you see any suspicious activity or want to report someone who may be in danger of harming others or themselves, you can report it anonymously to an administrator as immediately as possible or submit the information anonymously via email at [email protected] or call or text +1.206.406.6485.
Thank you for entrusting DeSoto ISD with the care and education of your student.