The Midland Independent School District’s (MISD) police department recently announced its intent to hire new officers. According to an Aug 7. press release by MISD, the development comes a few months after the school board approved funding expansion for the department with the intention of hiring 16 officers over the next three years.
"Our department remains steadfast in our dedication to providing a safe and secure environment for all students and staff," Carlos Ortiz, the district’s chief of police, said in the release. "The addition of our officers as approved by the board, coupled with a new initiative to add off-duty officers, demonstrate our commitment to prioritizing the safety of students."
Per MISD, district leaders gave the green light to plans for workforce expansion before the state required campuses to post an onsite officer in the wake of last year’s fatal mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde.
“This summer, new and existing officers underwent extensive training in various disciplines, earning certifications for use of a firearm, pepper spray, and other law enforcement techniques,” the statement reads. “These skills ensure the ability to handle any potential security situations that may arise on or around our campuses. This intense training is part of ongoing professional development for MISD officers to maintain a safe and secure educational environment for students and staff.”
The agenda for the board of trustees’ upcoming August meeting will include an item that would allow MISD to hire officers from other law enforcement agencies, the release said. If approved, it will allow the district to successfully abide by the state mandate, which is slated to go into effect on Sept 1.
Agencies that could lend MISD police assistance include the Midland Police Department (MPD), Midland County Sheriff's Office (MCSO), and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), according to the release.