Update released at noon Monday by USD 475:
Parents should expect that USD 475 may put extra security parameters in place any time the District believes an upgrade to our security is warranted. Based upon information gleaned during the previous week, the District felt increasing our security protocols for Friday’s event was a good measure. Also, with the addition of a Director of Emergency Management, we have been evaluating the safety and security plans at all schools. What the community experienced last Friday evening was the implementation of a select portion of how we handle security at a large sporting event. In conjunction with our community partners, we are currently evaluating how Friday night’s implementation of additional security measures went.
Hugh Davis
Executive Director of Communications – USD 475
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There was enhanced security at last Friday night’s Junction City Blue Jay football game at Al Simpler Stadium. No problems occurred, but patrons attending the game were checked at the entrance gates, and bags were checked.
The reason for that security stemmed from rumors circulating after a recent shooting case on Fort Riley that involved the death of JCHS student Kenyon Givins. U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom hadannounced that an 18 year old Fort Riley resident had been charged with one count of Involuntary Manslaughter in the case after allegedly handling a firearm in a reckless manner, resulting in the shooting death of Givens, who also lived on Fort Riley.
According to a letter last week from JCHS Principal Melissa Sharp to parents and guardians of students the school administration and staff had to address rumors regarding the incident, most of which were UNTRUE. Social media and text messages indicated that events happened on Post the previous week that never actually occurred. Sharp asked the parents and guardians for help in putting an end to the rumors.
She also noted that many students were having difficulty processing the tragic event, and were experiencing sadness, anger, and multiple forms of emotion, and there must be a joint effort to pull together to help one another during this time. Counselors and social workers would remain available for the students as long as they need that resource.
Sharp wrote that all community members should also know that as a result of the rumors that were circulating there would be mitigating measures of security added to future activities, including last Friday night’s home football game. Students would not be admitted to any activity without their student ID card.
A check with USD 475 on Monday revealed that a determination on whether that security will continue at future football games is still being determined.
