Several demonstrators marched outside Timberview High School in Mansfield ISD Tuesday. They were calling for state or federal legislation that would require metal detectors at schools.
According to a Texas Education Agency report from 2018, 91% of school districts across the state do not have metal detectors at any campuses. Just 1.09% had metal detectors at every campus.
The report said 84% were "contemplating" plans to expand the use of metal detectors.
"I want to see real change across this country," says Donnell Ballard, president of the group, "United my Justice." "I will be fighting until justice is served for our babies out there."
Ballard says schools should have security similar to federal buildings that require people to pass through metal detectors.
"Enough is enough," he says. "We need the principals, the school districts to do a better job making sure it is safe for our babies out here."
Texas does not require metal detectors at schools. Mansfield ISD Superintendent Kimberley Cantu says the district had already started a safety and security review.
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"We do have a safety and security expert with us on staff. He has been with us over a year, now," she says. "He will be an integral part as we move forward and look at any gaps that may exist within our safety and security protocols."
A report by the U.S. Department of Justice finds a metal detector "can accurately detect the presence of most types of firearms and knives."
But the report also says a metal detector cannot distinguish between a gun and an item like a belt buckle.
"This shortcoming is what makes weapon detection programs impractical for many schools; trained employees are needed to make these determinations," the report says.
In addition, the report says metal detectors are often not effective when used for backpacks, saying "There is usually a large number of different objects or materials located in or as part of the composition of these carried items that would cause an alarm."
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