The Laredo ISD Police Department and the LISD Health and Occupational Safety Support Services Department conducted a parade in celebration of America’s Safe Schools Week and National School Bus Safety Week which are observed in mid-October.
Police vehicles from the LISD Police Department, Webb County Constable’s Office, Webb County Sheriff’s Office, City of Laredo PD, Texas Department of Safety, and many other law enforcement agencies assembled at Garden and San Bernardo Avenue to start their red, white, and blue light and siren show which started at Martin High School. Law enforcement agencies were greeted with a wave of members from the MHS Cheerleaders and Tigerettes, Christen Middle School Band, and enthusiastic students.
This annual observance brings awareness to school safety and security. “Safety is a shared responsibility for all students, staff, and community. We are thankful for all our community partners who have joined us in celebrating Safety Week,” LISD Health and Occupational Safety Support Services Executive Director Dr. Oscar Perez said. “We want to be able to enhance the safety culture and let our students know that we are protecting them at any given time. At Laredo ISD safety is a top priority.”
The morning began with a proclamation ceremony in the LISD Performing Arts Complex. LISD Board of Trustees Vice President Rodolfo “Rudy” Morales, III, and Trustee Monica Garcia joined with LISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sylvia G. Rios in reading the proclamation. Belen Loredo of Martin High School performed the National Anthem, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance which was led by Leyendecker Elementary School students Valeria Aguilar, Ryder Sanchez, Scott Aguilar, and Lunah Hernandez.
With police sirens wailing and firefighter horns blaring, the parade set off after the proclamation ceremony, rolling past 20 LISD schools and spreading excitement throughout the community.
“As I like to say, ‘stand back from the yellow and black.’ Every day we combine forces to raise safety awareness in the streets. I’d like to ask the community that if they see our bus monitors, bus drivers, school mechanics, or our office staff, thank them for the efforts they provide every day,” LISD Transportation Department Director Alexis Solis said.
Additionally, LISD PD Chief Doreen Hale marked National Safe School and School Bus Safety Week by expressing her gratitude for the ongoing dedication to student safety. "Our collective efforts remain crucial in ensuring our schools continue to be safe havens for learning and growth. School safety is a multifaceted challenge that requires our unwavering commitment and collaboration."
Chief Hale emphasized the importance of working closely with educators, parents, and students to create a secure environment. "We must continue to work together to foster an environment where everyone feels safe. This involves not only responding to incidents but also proactively identifying any potential threats," she said. "Trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the public are essential for maintaining safety. I thank you for your dedication to this important cause. Together, we can continue to make a significant impact and ensure that our schools remain places of safety and opportunity for all our students."
America’s Safe Schools Week activities remind students, their parents, employees, and the school community that law enforcement officers are here to protect them. The National School Safety Center established Safe School Week in 1984. School safety includes keeping campuses free of crime and violence, improving discipline, and increasing student attendance. Schools that are safe and free of violence, weapons and drugs are necessary to ensure the well-being of all children and the quality of their education.