Uvalde CISD Superintendent’s Letter addresses campus security improvements

In a letter to parents and the media released Wednesday, June 13th, 2022, Uvalde CISD Superintendent Hal Harrell addresses the topics of the 2022-2023 school calendar, campus realignment plans for the upcoming school year, the school starting date and campus security improvement plans.

2022-2023 Academic Calendar Adjustment

“I, along with the Uvalde CISD Board of Trustees and administration, are working
diligently to develop a comprehensive return-to-school plan for the 2022-2023 school
year that addresses the needs of our students, staff, and families.

While the plan is still a work in progress, I wanted to share with you some important updates.A 2022-2023 school year calendar adjustment will be proposed at the Monday, July 18,
Uvalde CISD Board Meeting. The delay will allow us to better address staff and student
needs for a successful school year.” Harrell wrote.”

Campus Realignment Changes

“As a district, fostering a secure and nurturing environment for all learning community
members is our top priority. In order to ensure all students have the resources and
support they need during the upcoming school year, we are making adjustments to our
previously announced grade-level alignment plans.
The adjustments outlined below are driven by the desire to ensure all campuses have
adequate space and resources to meet student needs while maintaining small student
populations at each campus to allow for more personalized support. Counselors with
specialized backgrounds in trauma and grief will be available to serve students and staff
at all district campuses.
● The Uvalde Elementary campus, Benson Educational Complex, will serve third
and fourth grades under the direction of the teachers, support staff, and
administrators from Robb Elementary.
● Flores Elementary will serve students in the fifth and sixth grade. The teachers,
support staff, and administrators at Flores Elementary will remain in place.
● Crossroads Academy will be relocated to 537 E. Oppenheimer Street. This
facility will meet the Academy’s unique needs for a flexible school day with a
focus on individualized learning plans.
New Hope Daycare Changes
The New Hope Daycare will be located in the north building at the Benson Educational
Complex.” Harrell wrote.
Safety and Security Updates
We continue to work in coordination with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and the
Texas School Safety Center (TxSSC) to conduct a comprehensive safety and security
audit of all district property. These agencies have provided the district with initial
recommendations for enhancing safety and security infrastructure, which we are taking
action with $1 million in funding donated by the Las Vegas Raiders. Current projects
include:
● Installation of new perimeter fencing
● Addition of security cameras
● Upgrading of doors, door locks, and access points
● Hiring additional district police officers and security personnel” Harrell wrote.

Harrell summarized the letter with the following statement:
“As we continue to prepare for the 2022-2023 school year, a lot of work is still to be
done, and many questions are yet to be answered. We are committed to working with
you to understand your concerns so that they can be appropriately addressed and we
will continue to share updates and information throughout the summer.
We appreciate your cooperation, patience, and understanding as we work together to
provide a safe educational setting for our students and staff. If you have any further
questions, please call the Central Office at 830-278-6655.”