Upstate, NC school districts react to tragedy in Texas

GREENVILLE, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - School districts across the Upstate are reacting to the tragic mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas that claimed the lives of 19 elementary school students on Tuesday.

Anderson District One shared an image of Texas with the message, “Always in our hearts. With Deepest Sympathy.”

Greenwood District 50 released a message, saying their thoughts and prayers are with the families involved in the tragedy in Uvalde. They also reiterated safety reminders for the district, including limiting visitors, enhanced security and year-end celebrations and metal detectors at high school graduation ceremonies.

Ware Shoals School District 51 shared a picture of Texas with the message, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District.”

The Yancey County Sheriff’s Office made a statement on its Facebook page about the incident. The Sheriff’s Office announced they will add more school resource officers at the start of the school year in August.

Sheriff Shane Hilliard announces additional school resource officers will be added at the start of school in August. The sheriff’s office will be adding two additional school resource officers to give 100% coverage at all Yancey County Public schools next school year. Sheriff Hilliard proposed this idea to the Yancey County Commissioners and the Yancey County school board members following the recent incident at Blue Ridge Elementary. The commissioners’ approved unanimously to fund the additional positions.

“Yancey County Commissioners realize that these are unpredictable times in our country and they want the children of our communities to feel safe at school,” said County Manager, Lynn Austin. “The health and safety of our children and citizens remain the top priority for the Commissioners. “

In the wake of the horrific events at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas yesterday, the Sheriff’s Office will have an increased presence in our schools for the remainder of the 21-22 school year.

“I’m thankful that the Board of Education and the Yancey County Commissioners are able to come together with Sheriff Shane Hilliard’s office to protect our students and staff and to give them a safe learning environment,” said Vice Chairman of the Yancey County Board of Education, Wade Dahlberg. “This shows that protecting our kids is everyone’s top priority.”

The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office made a statement on Thursday, May 26, that they also plan to increase law enforcement presence at the schools.

“We take great care and responsibility in ensuring the safety and well-being of our students. We are increasing our presence, support and staff available throughout county school buildings as a reflection of that commitment.”

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