Submitted by the Lafayette Parish School System
LAFAYETTE, LA (September 20, 2024) – The Lafayette Parish School System’s (LPSS) weapons detection system successfully safeguarded the Comeaux High football stadium on Thursday night, proving its effectiveness in protecting students and spectators. The equipment alerted officials to a young man carrying a firearm attempting to enter the stadium before the Madison Prep versus Southside High game. Thanks to the swift response of the LPSS administration and staff at the event, the individual was apprehended by Lafayette Police without incident, highlighting the effectiveness of LPSS’s proactive safety measures.
Superintendent Francis Touchet, Jr. emphasized the district’s ongoing commitment to providing
a secure environment for all students and staff. “We’ve discovered that Lafayette Parish schools
and facilities are among the safest not only in the state, but in the country,” he stated. “The
weapons detection system is just one part of our robust security efforts designed to ensure the
safety of our students and community.”
The LPSS safety initiative encompasses a comprehensive range of measures, including:
- Weapons Detection Systems: Cutting-edge technology deployed at key entry points.
- School Resource Officers: Trained professionals stationed at each campus to provide
- support and security.
- Secure Entry Vestibules: Enhanced access control to monitor visitors and ensure safe
- entry.
- Fenced-in Facilities: Physical barriers that enhance the security of school grounds.
These initiatives reflect LPSS’s unwavering dedication to creating a safe learning environment where students can thrive academically and socially. The recent incident serves as a reminder of the importance of these measures and the commitment of LPSS to uphold the highest safety standards.
As Lafayette Parish continues to lead the way in school safety, community members can feel
confident that their schools are equipped to handle potential threats effectively. LPSS remains
steadfast in its mission to foster a secure atmosphere where every student can feel safe and
supported.
