The Legacy of Serenity Baker

 

Serenity Baker

The security and discipline in the KISD is completely out of control. I’m now getting input from others here and elsewhere about other incidents at Roy J Smith and other schools, especially Ellison, affectionately known as “Gangster High.” While dropping my granddaughter off each day I have observed the various groups at Ellison. By and large they appear to be good kids. In any population the majority will “go along to get along,” That having been said there is an underlying factor that subscribes to the fundamental ideas perpetuated by various groups, social media and the inaction of security and staff. 

These kids have lived through the pandemic. You must understand that school is a major part of a teen’s social structure. And groups are part of that structure. That structure was totally disassembled for over two years and when the kids came back it was according to the Gospel of TikTok, and other influences they relied upon during the exile. 

Now, combine that with the Killeen society. Killeen is The Bronx disguised as a midwestern town of moderate size. It is transient, violent, and has all the features of a city many times its size. Think about it. Two mass murders within five miles of each other on a national scale. Runaways from various parts of the country routinely turn up in Killeen. That’s your town. And in that town are kids in school. And they aren’t stupid, but they know the adults are. 

You cannot treat a Killeen school like the Little Red Schoolhouse. It’s not. Extraordinary situations demand extraordinary measures. Even extreme at times. Limited access. Security at every door. Security in restrooms where students routinely charge their vapes. Real hardline discipline. And yes, real punishment for real crimes. 

The death of Miss Baker has been coming for a long time. It was in the cards. And all the posturing will not explain or excuse the perfectly executed strike on the little lady. The assailant knew what she was using and did the attack with the proficiency of an assault in a jail. And school staff, security, and students were poorly prepared for that eventuality. 

You, as concerned parents need to demand change. Do not accept that “It’s difficult to control!” It was asked here if it was reasonable to scrutinize every student entering the school? Yes! And every backpack. And when a student is found to be over the line get rid of them. Alternative school, Juvie, whatever. Do not allow these predators to prowl among your children. Even school uniforms should not be out of the question. Because if you don’t this will escalate. And there will be more Serenitys. You must play the hand you are dealt. Last Monday you were drawing to an inside straight. Organize. Go to the school board. Make them hear you. If they don’t get a new school board. Enough condolences. This is the time for action.