Tuesday’s deadly shooting at an elementary school in Texas has prompted some local action to ensure the safety of students, according to social media posts made by both the PSD and Polk County Police this morning.

Expect increased patrols from law enforcement around Polk School District

The Polk School District posted the following this morning in response to the shooting:

“Polk School District grieves with the Uvalde community as they mourn the loss of the students and teachers that lost their lives yesterday. Our hearts are broken for all those affected by this incomprehensible tragedy.

The Polk School District Police Department will continue to work closely with state and local law enforcement agencies to ensure our schools are equipped with the necessary resources to ensure a safe and secure environment at each of our school campuses. We appreciate your patience, understanding, and partnership as the safety and security of our staff and students remains our top priority.”

For now, one of the measures being taken for student safety is increased police presence will be seen outside and on-campus for the time being.

Superintendent Dr. Katie Thomas did not immediately have a response on how long the additional police presence will remain on campus, but it is expected that they will remain at least through the end of the week until graduation ceremonies are concluded and the academic year closes out.

Polk County Police posted the following on their Facebook as well:

“Don’t be alarmed if you see an increased presence on Law Enforcement at your schools in the coming days.

Our agency is working hand in hand with our Polk County School Police to ensure the safety of our children as they enjoy their graduation ceremonies.”

And the Polk County Sheriff’s Office:

“Same with Polk County Georgia Sheriff’s Office; love checking on our students and teachers!”

The Associated Press reported this morning the death toll in the mass shooting incident was so far 19 children and two teachers. An 18-year-old gunman entered Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas, and barricaded himself in a classroom where the AP reports he shot anyone who got in his way. Police ultimately forced their way into the classroom and shot and killed the suspect. All of the victims were from the same fourth grade class at the school.

It is the worst school shooting since the Sandy Hook Elementary massacre saw 20 students killed in 2012.