Killeen ISD Faces School Security Crisis After Fatal Stabbing of Student

KILLEEN, Texas — Students at Roy J. Smith Middle School returned to class on March 25, two weeks after a devastating incident in which 14-year-old Serenity Baker was fatally stabbed during an altercation on campus. Killeen Independent School District (KISD) Superintendent Dr. Jo Ann Fey reported a 93 percent attendance rate on the first day back.

In the aftermath of the incident, 38 students withdrew from Roy J. Smith, with a significant number returning to their home campuses within the district. Dr. Fey explained that a single entry point was established for all students, with some arriving as early as 7:30 a.m. The process to admit students took longer than expected, with the last student entering the building by approximately 9 a.m. However, the superintendent noted that the entry process improved on subsequent days.

Dr. Fey reassured parents that the district is actively addressing issues of bullying and violence. “We don’t have an uptick of violence,” she stated. “What we have is a consistent pattern of violence at KISD in our schools.” She emphasized the importance of responding decisively to assaults, indicating that recommendations for expulsion could be applied for incidents of violence against staff.

During a press conference, Dr. Fey discussed the heightened security measures now in place at Killeen ISD, although she declined to disclose specific details. “Ultimately, security starts with the supervision of kids. That is something we are reinforcing among our staff,” she said.

The controversy surrounding school safety has led to discussions about implementing clear backpack policies across the district. Dr. Fey noted that while some campuses have already adopted specific measures, KISD is in the process of forming a consistent policy regarding backpacks.

The fatal stabbing of Baker occurred on March 10 when she was attacked with a 3.5-inch tactical folding knife by a fellow 14-year-old student. The responsible student was taken into custody following the incident. Dr. Fey confirmed that the metal detectors at Roy J. Smith were not functional on the day of Baker’s death and dispelled rumors suggesting they were switched off.

In accordance with maintaining transparency, KISD plans to update its FAQ section regarding the incident, including specifics about the attendance of the students involved. Dr. Fey clarified that the two girls present during the stabbing were not tardy that day.

The ongoing investigation into the stabbing is being handled by the Killeen Police Department, and KISD aims to conclude its internal review in the coming weeks. “This moment in our crisis is an opportunity to put the stake in the ground, and we want to do better moving forward,” Dr. Fey stated during the press conference.