Two big issues for schools

When to reopen

Regarding “State leaving it to local school leaders to set virus protocol,” (A1, June 24): In their draft safety guidelines for reopening schools, the Texas Education Agency claims that for schools, it is “not possible to eliminate all risk of furthering the spread of COVID-19.” Of course it’s possible! Allow schools to continue educating remotely until the spread of the pandemic has slowed significantly. Reopening schools before then exposes staff, students and their families to unnecessary risk.

John Sigren, Houston

Police on campuses

Regarding “Overpoliced schools,” (A15, June 22): As a former school counselor, I completely agree that if you want to “defund the police, start with schools.” I intervened successfully in situations that could have been unnecessarily escalated if an officer was called instead of me. In other cases, I witnessed an officer’s arrival to a situation heightening tensions, particularly for black and brown students. Students are safer when counselors are allowed to create positive approaches to behaviors. Many Texas districts don’t have enough school counselors. Too often, school counselors are inaccessible to students because they are administering standardized tests and supervising lunch. Instead we need counselors to teach conflict resolution, positive social behaviors and preventive approaches. Campus police increase anxiety and criminalization of students, especially those who are low-income, black or brown, have disabilities and are LGBTQ. Schools do not need police officers to be safe. School counselors are essential to the safety of school. Schools need to invest in what works.

Ashney Shelly, Houston

Texas 6 roadwork

Tuesday night I drove home through the deluge that hit Houston. My route included the section of Texas 6 just north of Interstate 10 that normally would have flooded given the amount of rain. However, there was no standing water anywhere on the roadway. The remediation completed by local, state and federal transportation agencies and funds will keep those traversing Texas 6 safe. The benefits to area residents cannot be overstated. Thanks to all those who made these improvements such a success! Only question now is when will the lighting along the same route be turned on?

Stephen Jordan, Houston