St. Paul Will Reinstate School Police Officers After Deadly Stabbing

ST. PAUL, MN — St. Paul Public Schools plan to reinstate police officers following the deadly stabbing at Harding High last week. Like many districts in the state and across the country, St. Paul Schools removed police officers in 2020 following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

Going forward, officers will be placed at Central, Como Park, Harding, Humboldt, and Washington High School.

"In partnership with the Saint Paul Police Department, SPPS is announcing immediate, short-term security measures for some of our largest high schools that have recently experienced traumatic events at or near their campuses," Laura Olson, the district's director of security of emergency management, wrote in a letter to staff.

Olson added that "this is a fluid situation and we have the ability to make adjustments as needed. We are working closely with SPPD to determine what the longer-term plans could look like."

A 15-year-old died and a 16-year-old was arrested after a stabbing at Harding on Friday.

"Like all of you, I am grieving that this happened in one of our schools today," said Joe Gothard, the St. Paul Public Schools superintendent, in a statement.

"The school went into lockdown and dismissed students early. Activities at Harding were canceled this evening and through the weekend. We will keep you informed of other cancellations or events that may be impacted by this tragic event."

Gothard said the stabbing followed an alternation, but could not provide details due to privacy laws involving juveniles and the ongoing homicide investigation.

The school went into lockdown at about 11:45 a.m. The Saint Paul Police Department responded and students were held in their classrooms until the building was cleared, according to the district.

The school began dismissing students at 1:20 p.m., and all evening activities and weekend events at Harding High School were canceled.

"The stabbing at Harding today is sad and infuriating," said St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter.

"My heart is with the family and friends of the victim, as well as the entire school community who is grieving the loss of another youth to senseless violence. There are no words to describe or ease this pain. The tragedies we have endured—especially over the last month—make it clear that there is no such thing as “safe enough” where our young people are concerned. We all deserve better."

Friday's stabbing followed nonfatal shootings that took place at Washington Technology Magnet School and near Central High School in January.