BISD issues statement on 'misconduct surge'

Beaumont Independent School District (BISD) Superintendent Shannon Allen addressed what she called a surge in misconduct at local schools in a letter to parents, asking for their help to stop the intolerable behavior permeating through Beaumont campuses.

"In response to the recent surge in student misconduct, including fighting and making statements of a threatening nature, I call upon our families to partner with the district to stop these behaviors," she wrote. "BISD will not tolerate these actions and all students should know that we take every offense very seriously. 

"Some of our students are making poor choices, which distracts them from the reason they are attending school. Time is of the essence right now, and moments spent engaging in foolish or destructive behavior take away from the work we need to do to ensure our students succeed academically. 

"In recent days, the threats received by campuses have prompted lockdowns and increased security presence. These disruptions cause the district, the city and the county to expend resources and take them away from their normal duties. The threats also cause panic and worry for our students, parents and the community. Parents, I am asking you to make your child aware of the severe administrative and criminal consequences of participating in destructive and violent behaviors or threats. 

"We need our students to come forward if they know about an incident. I am disappointed to see many students are bystanders and even video or share photos of fights and other misconduct occurring on campuses. We want to assure our students that coming forward is by no means a punitive action and will only help our district perform the duty at hand; education. 

"Students can speak to a campus administrator or teacher, call the Beaumont ISD Police Department at 409-617-7000 or Crime Stoppers at 409-833-4477 to report any criminal or suspicious behavior. The adage “if you see something, say something” still applies today.

"Students must realize that time out of class is not taken lightly and may add time to the school day or make up entire days. Administrators will consider these options should the disruptions continue.

"I urge you to review with your students the seriousness of making poor decisions and the consequences of these actions as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct, Texas Education Code and state/federal law. Students involved in such behaviors will face suspension, expulsion, a transfer to Pathways, may be required to pay for damages, or receive charges filed against them."

Those interested in making a difference on BISD campuses through mentorship and volunteer opportunities are asked to visit www.bmtisd.com/volunteers