First Step to Success is Showing Up

September is Attendance Awareness Month, and I want to share a simple truth: the first step to success is showing up. Strong attendance builds the routines and relationships that help students learn and feel safe—so this month I’m updating you on the work Killeen ISD is doing to protect and support your children, both physically and emotionally.

We’ve taken a comprehensive approach to safety. Every KISD campus has reviewed and refined emergency response plans, and we’ve conducted training with both staff and Killeen ISD PD. Additional security cameras have been installed districtwide, and we’ve hired more safety specialists and investigators.

But safety isn’t just about buildings and protocols—it’s also about the relationships that shape our schools. Our staff is focused on building meaningful connections with students because we know that when a child feels seen, valued, and supported, they’re more likely to speak up, reach out, and thrive. This year, we’re reinforcing that effort through campus culture initiatives, mentorship programs, and restorative practices that promote respect and accountability.

Mental health is also a priority. Every campus has access to school counselors, and many are supported by additional social workers or crisis counselors. If your child ever needs help, we want them to know: they are not alone, and we are here to support them.

Lastly, I want to highlight an important tool available to all families and students: our anonymous reporting system. Whether someone needs to report bullying, threats, or mental health concerns, this system gives students, families and community members a safe way to speak up. You can access the online tool here: www.KISDisSafe.com.

Thank you for being our partners in keeping our schools safe and supportive. When students, staff, and families work together, trust grows—and safety follows.

With gratitude,

Dr. King Davis
Interim Superintendent

P.S. We want to hear from you about our District Optimization draft scenarios. Please tell us what you think by completing the survey at www.killeenisd.org/optimization-survey, and learn more about the process at www.killeenisd.org/optimization.