Warner Robins High School students return as patrols increase and mental health concerns remain

Sheriff Matt Moulton said the focus was helping students feel safe, while a local mental health professional urged parents to watch for signs of trauma.

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Students at Warner Robins High School returned to campus Monday for the first time since last Wednesday’s shooting, as law enforcement increased its presence at the school and mental health professionals urged parents to watch for signs their children may be struggling.

Houston County Sheriff Matt Moulton said the focus as students returned was making sure they felt supported and safe.

“Our students had to endure something last week that no students should ever have to face,” Moulton said. “So the focus of today as they came back to campus for the first time since Wednesday is to surround them with compassion. With prayer. To let them know that we truly care about their welfare and their safety.”

Moulton said the increased law enforcement presence is intended to reassure students, faculty and staff that their safety is a priority.

“We want them to know that we’re dedicated to keeping their community, their campus safe,” Moulton said. “And so we did have an increased presence of law enforcement, as well as the school board.”

The return to school also comes as students and families continue to process the emotional impact of the shooting.

Taryn Asbell-Werner, owner and clinical director of Werner Behavioral Health Center, said parents should pay attention to changes in their child’s behavior following a traumatic event.

“If you’re noticing a lot of avoidance I would talk to them about speaking with someone who is a professional and can help them through this, “Asbell-Werner said. “Something bad happened and it’s okay to talk about it and it’s okay to ask for help.”

She said other signs parents may notice include nightmares, not wanting to be alone and repeatedly asking “what if” questions.

Asbell-Werner also encouraged families to use the mental health resources available throughout Middle Georgia.

“We have a lot of great agencies around the Middle Georgia area and we should all be team members as agencies to support one another in this community,” she said.

As students return to the classroom, Moulton said law enforcement and the school board remain focused on providing a safe environment for students and staff.