During a recent government meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding public school funding and safety in Denton ISD. The discussions highlighted the impact of legislative decisions on education and the alarming behavior of school staff.

One speaker, Ms. Bertone, criticized the current funding model for Texas public schools, revealing that a voucher program was a prerequisite for any financial support. She emphasized the importance of the upcoming elections, urging voters to support candidates who prioritize public education over those backed by large donors with differing agendas.

The meeting took a serious turn when Anna De Luna recounted a disturbing incident involving a Denton ISD employee at Ryan High School. She described witnessing the employee physically assaulting a 13-year-old student, detailing how she intervened and retrieved the child's stolen phone. De Luna expressed her frustration over the school administration's response, which she felt downplayed the incident and failed to address the employee's violent history. She called for immediate action to ensure the safety of students, questioning why such an individual was still employed in a role involving children.

Another speaker, Donna Smith, addressed the presence of police officers in schools, expressing support for their role in protecting students. However, she raised concerns about transparency regarding incidents involving law enforcement and bullying, suggesting that information should be shared beyond the school level to ensure accountability and support for affected families.

The meeting underscored a growing demand for accountability in school safety and funding, as community members urged leaders to prioritize the well-being of students in Denton ISD.