Americas High School will have additional law enforcement on campus as students return following a stabbing that injured three students.
Principal Nancy Torres announced that students will return on a regular schedule Monday, Aug. 31, according to a letter posted on the school's website.
"During this difficult time, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the overwhelming support, kindness, and encouragement that our students, staff, and administration have received from our Blazer parents, community members, Socorro ISD and the greater El Paso community," Torres said.
"Your heartfelt messages, prayers, offers of assistance, and unwavering support have been a source of strength for all of us," she added.
Three Americas High School students were
stabbed Aug. 28, including two who authorities said were attempting to help another student during the attack near the school's baseball field.
Officers found three students — a 14-year-old girl, a 14-year-old boy and a 15-year-old boy — suffering from stab wounds. El Paso County Sheriff's Office Commander Jerome Washington said two of the victims were stabbed while "assisting or intervening" on behalf of the other student.
All three students were taken to hospitals for treatment, and two had been released as of Aug. 28. One victim was airlifted by the department's Firestar air ambulance.
A 14-year-old male suspect was arrested shortly after the stabbing and faces three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, though officials said additional charges could be filed.
The names of the suspect and victims are not being released because they are minors. Authorities have not said whether the suspect is an Americas High School student.
Torres said she plans to meet with students by grade level Monday to provide support, reassurance and information as they return to campus. School counselors and support staff also will be available for students who need assistance following the incident.
Torres said community members who want to help can donate water, snacks and colored pencils for student activities. Donations can be dropped off throughout the day at a donation tent on Peter Cooper Drive.
"These thoughtful contributions will help us provide comfort and activities for our students as we focus on healing together," Torres said.
"Together, we will continue to care for, support, and uplift our students," she said.
Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on X, natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Americas High School to increase police presence as students return
