Hamtramck Schools face scrutiny over communication during gun incident at Horizon High

During the Hamtramck Public Schools Regular Board Meeting on February 20, 2025, significant concerns regarding school safety and communication protocols were raised following a recent incident involving a weapon at Horizon High School. Teachers and students voiced their frustrations about the lack of effective communication during the lockdown situation, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures and clearer protocols.

A teacher from ECD expressed her worries about the safety of staff and students, noting that various personnel travel between buildings and may not be adequately informed during emergencies. This sentiment was echoed by Laith Mohammed, a ninth-grade student, who recounted the fear and confusion experienced by students when a gun was discovered on campus. He criticized the lack of a lockdown during the incident, questioning the effectiveness of security measures and the communication breakdown that left students feeling unsafe.

Sarah Lankey, another teacher at Hamtramck High School, commended the actions of students who raised alarms but emphasized that the communication failures were indicative of a systemic issue within the district. She called for a clear chain of command and better preparedness for such emergencies, arguing that the current systems are insufficient for ensuring student safety.

The discussions underscored a collective call for action to address these critical safety concerns. Stakeholders are urging the district to implement more robust communication strategies and safety protocols to protect students and staff effectively. As the community grapples with these issues, the board faces pressure to take decisive steps toward enhancing school safety and fostering a culture of care and support within the educational environment.