Shootings push two Selma schools into virtual learning

Two weekend shootings involving juveniles — cause two Selma schools to transition to virtual learning.

Selma City School Superintendent Dr. Zickeyous Byrd says — the decision for the schools to go virtual — was made out of an abundance of caution.

“Due to multiple shootings over the weekend that included one of our scholars that was severely injured, we decided to transition to virtual learning for Selma High School and our alternative school,” said Byrd.

Two teens were shot over the weekend in Selma — on the 1500 block of Marie Foster Street. A 17 year old teen was critically injured in a shooting Friday evening. Then an 18 year old was shot in the foot — on the same block — the very next day.

Police believe the shootings stemmed from a fight at school. Chief Kenta Fulford says police are beefing up patrols at the schools — to address any safety concerns.

“They will see an increase of walk-throughs and patrols around our schools,” Fulford said.

“We just want them to know that the police department is here and we’re going to do everything that we can to make sure everyone is safe.”

And we’re definitely thankful for any cooperation that the police department is able to lend to us,” said Byrd.

“We believe that the increase in police presence will definitely deter future violence from occurring.”

Still, Byrd is requesting that an officer be placed at each school for the reminder of the school year.

“To make sure that our scholars are safe. And to make sure of course that our staff is safe as well.”

Byrd said the schools will remain on virtual learning until an officer is placed at each school — or the shooting suspects have been arrested.