In todayโ€™s climate, threats against schools are treated with the highest level of seriousness. In Texas, making a threat against a school is not just a misguided prankโ€”itโ€™s a grave crime with significant consequences. Regardless of whether a threat is intended as a joke or a false alarm, law enforcement takes immediate action to protect students, teachers, and staff.

Under Texas law, even a threat that is never acted upon is classified as a felony. The potential consequences are severe and include:

  • Arrest: Individuals making threats can be arrested by law enforcement.
  • Criminal Record: A felony conviction results in a permanent criminal record.
  • Fines: Offenders may face substantial financial penalties.
  • Jail Time: Convictions can lead to imprisonment.

In addition to legal penalties, students who make threats may face serious disciplinary actions at school, including suspension or expulsion. To ensure every threat is thoroughly investigated, Texas law enforcement collaborates closely with school officials.

It is essential to understand that a single poor decision can have lifelong repercussions. Reporting suspicious behavior is vital for maintaining a safe school environment. The iWatch Texas program allows the public to report concerns via a mobile app, online at iWatch Texas, or by calling 1-844-643-2251. All reports are confidential. Sealy ISD is hosting a Tiger Talk to discuss navigating school threats. You can find the flyer here.

Trends and Statistics

The number of school threats varies widely based on location, time, and the nature of the threats. Some general insights include:

  1. National Trends: In the United States, reported school threats have been increasing. A 2021 report from the National School Safety and Security Services revealed that schools receive thousands of threats each year, many of which are false alarms or hoaxes. The FBI also reports a high number of threats annually, though exact figures can vary.
  2. Texas Data: Texas has seen a substantial number of reported threats. The Texas Education Agency noted over 2,000 threats statewide during the 2020-2021 school year. This number can fluctuate annually based on changes in reporting practices and public awareness.
  3. Recent Trends: The rise in reported threats may be linked to increased awareness, better reporting mechanisms, and heightened sensitivity to potential risks.

For the most current information on school threats, consult local law enforcement or school district reports for data specific to your area.

Together, we can work to ensure that our schools remain safe places for learning and development.