On Tuesday, Harris County Commissioners officially approved a request to adopt bylaws for the Harris County Safe School Commission. Created in 2022, the commission compiles recommendations on how Harris County entities can support the safety of all 25 independent school districts, charter schools and private schools with strategies throughout the academic year.   

The director of Harris County Department of Education’s (HCDE) Center for Safe and Secure Schools (CSSS), Leslie Etheridge, Harris County Fire Marshal Laurie Christensen, members of Moms Demand Action and several safety commission representatives addressed the county commissioners’ court in support of the bylaws. The operating rules create bimonthly meetings that allow leaders to be proactive, rather than reactive, to safety concerns. Each precinct must also appoint students to the board to gain insight into their experiences and abilities when making safety and security procedures.  

“CSSS is a full-time department providing campus safety audits, training and staff professional development across the region,” Etheridge said during her address to county commissioners. “The Safe Schools Commission is an added layer of brainpower and resources to help Harris County school districts navigate these concerns. We thank you, commissioners, for your efforts toward safety in our schools.” 

Assistant Superintendent of Education and Enrichment Dr. CJ Rodgers and CSSS Officer Jeremy Foster and Specialist Janice Owolabi offered their support by attending Tuesday’s presentation.