SEATTLE — With students back in class, Seattle Police are starting new emphasis patrols around Garfield High School and the Central District neighborhood.
Seattle Public Schools also contracted extra security staff for this week.
In just the last month, police have responded to 3 shootings around the campus.
RELATED | Gun violence fears continue following multiple shootings, threats near Garfield HS
“Children need to feel safe,” said Lologo Lologo, a 4th grade teacher at Leschi Elementary School.
On Thursday, another threat led to early dismissal for students. Classes were online on the following Friday.
“When you got a high school who’s shutting down because of threats of gun violence like you really need to ask yourself ‘why is that happening’,” said Shannon Mayo with Moms Demand Action.
The only information Seattle Public Schools (SPS) released was that the threat appeared to be related to dismissal time and after school. Parents, students and neighbors want to know why and that question remains unanswered.
“We know the increase in violence in our community has raised concerns for students, families, and staff. [Seattle Public Schools] will be using this time to gather information, consult with partners, and work on measures to support our school,” Garfield High School Principal Dr. Tarance Hart said in a statement on the school website.
Kayla Epting, the Garfield High School Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) President said this entire incident is negatively impacting students mental health and their view of just how safe they are at school. KOMO asked her if she thinks the district’s doing its best to keep students safe on campus.
RELATED | Questions remain following threats, remote learning switch at 2 Seattle high schools
Lologo’s students are supposed to take a field trip to Garfield High School tomorrow.
“I’m gonna ask our principal about what kind of action plan needs to happen and what kind of conversations need to be started,” said Lologo.
Parents, educators and authorities will meet tonight to talk about the safety concerns.
We’ve already heard several suggestions like adding more resource officers and police while everyone works on long-term solutions.
“People are upset frustrated, angry all for valid reasons but again we want to also allow law-enforcement to do what they need to do,” said Epting.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell said he is committing more than $9 million dollars to mental health resources and school-based health centers.
“I appreciate more patrols. I appreciate our elected officials and leaders coming out and being a part of the neighborhood.” Said Aaron Pritchard, who lives near the school.
The solution-based meeting starts Monday night at 7 p.m. at Garfield High School.
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