Howard County school leaders address safety concerns after student's arrest on campus

BALTIMORE -- Howard County educators are reassuring families that safety is a top priority after a student accused of murder was arrested on Tuesday in one of the district's schools.

A 17-year-old wearing an ankle monitor and having a loaded gun in his backpack was arrested during the school day at Howard High School. He is accused of killing 26-year-old Kendrick McLellan, who was found shot to death behind a Columbia office building last weekend.

"Safety is our highest priority," Howard High Principal Steven Fleming said In a letter to families. "What we experienced, and certainly the news that was reported to us by police, is upsetting, and I can personally empathize with students, staff, and family members who are asking how we can ensure a safe school environment."

District leaders say a series of public Frequently Asked Questions is in the works to provide more clarity for students and parents.

"This is an exceedingly frightening series of events, and I share many of the concerns and questions being expressed by stakeholders," Howard County Public Schools Superintendent Bill Barnes said. "The questions that are being received deserve answers."    

It's unclear why the student, who WJZ is not identifying because of his age, was wearing the ankle monitor. He is being charged as an adult for first-degree murder.

"This week, our primary focus is to tend to the needs of Howard High School students and staff," Barnes said. "They need answers to their most immediate questions and to feel a sense of security once again in their school."

"Behind-the-scenes" response

Principal Fleming told families that students were informed about the arrest and there was a sizable response "behind the scenes" that led to the arrest.

The school's crisis team was also available for students in the aftermath. 

"A message was shared with students to reassure them of the efforts occurring to maintain a safe school environment and emphasize our commitment to a safe school environment," Fleming said. "Additionally, our crisis team was available on campus throughout the day to support any students or staff members who may have needed assistance processing this event."

The principal said he is working with Howard County Public School leaders and the Howard County Police to review Tuesday's response and to make appropriate safety changes.

"As we learn more and review what occurred, I will provide more information to all stakeholders," Fleming said. "I deeply appreciate the Howard High School community's coming together to support us as we collectively navigate this challenging situation."

Enhancing security measures

Superintendent Barnes is working with the Howard County Police Department and Maryland Department of Juvenile Services to reflect on the events, decisions, and actions that occurred leading up to Tuesday's arrest.

He said the district will continue talks with the Howard County Government and the police department to enhance security measures at the schools, which includes assessing the current state of safety and security across the country.

"I also commit to providing clarity on the ways that the school system and community members can work together towards our collective commitment for safe schools," Barnes said. "A safety plan and timely communications are essential components to successfully maintaining safe school communities, but it takes thoughtful and constant actions by all stakeholders and community partners to establish and maintain learning environments where students and staff are safe."