FREER, Texas — A South Texas school district is adding an extra layer of security to their open campus with a unique plan that involves one of their own.
Freer ISD is installing a $80,000 security fence that will be 2,000 square feet long and all paid for by grants for the state and the Texas Education Agency.
Superintendent Conrad Cantu said the decision to enclose the high school is to ensure the safety of everyone at school.
"So, we typically have chases because we're so close to the border and many times they happen in the neighborhoods behind us," Cantu said. "The concern was when we have those bail outs and we have illegal immigrants in different areas. We don't want them to come on school property."
Cantu said the school district is proud to trust former student Damion Liguez with an important project.
Liguez, who was part of the welding program since freshman year said that this program sparked his interest to start his own business. Now, he is paving the way for future welders.
"It means a lot. At the same time it's great because I get to give other students opportunities to learn and figure something out, something new and something they might like in the future," Liguez said.
With the help of juniors and seniors in the welding classes, the fence is estimated to be completed in three months.
"They'll have a class three hours a day every other day", Cantu said. "So they're going to be helping build this fence."
Cantu said this security feature is an important step to the future of Freer High School but he is even more proud that it's being built by their very own.
"This gentleman that is a former student and our current students, are not only going to provide security for our students but have real life working opportunities. I think that's the biggest win in all of this," Cantu said. " It'll be nice to have our current and former students work on this."
Cantu said the elementary school is currently fenced but there are talks to upgrade the fence in the future.