Pauls Valley principal praised but questions remain from parents about safety measures after shooting

Principal Kirk Moore is being celebrated for his bravery in stopping a school shooter, while some parents in Pauls Valley are raising concerns about school safety measures.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a school security badge or ID card, the details and textures of the object standing out against the stark black background, conceptually representing the investigation into school safety protocols.The community of Pauls Valley grapples with questions about school safety measures after a principal's heroic actions stopped a shooting.Pauls Valley Today

Principal Kirk Moore of Pauls Valley High School is being hailed as a hero for his swift actions in stopping a school shooter, sparking praise from the community and discussions about school safety. While Moore's actions are widely celebrated, some in the community are questioning the circumstances that led to the incident, including concerns about the school's safety measures and the response time of the student resource officer.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges schools face in ensuring student safety, even in small communities like Pauls Valley. The community's response and the questions being raised about safety protocols could lead to changes in how the school district approaches security measures and resource officer coverage.

The details

Investigators confirmed that the student resource officer arrived about a minute after the shooting. The officer covers multiple campuses, which some residents believe poses challenges. The school district has retained an attorney, who declined to comment on safety concerns or whether additional student resource officers will be added in the future. The community is working to heal and move forward together, with the school district helping students through therapy dogs and other support.

  • The shooting incident occurred at Pauls Valley High School.
  • Prom night is scheduled for this Friday, offering the community a chance to come together on a positive note.

The players

Principal Kirk Moore

The principal of Pauls Valley High School who is being celebrated as a hero for his actions in stopping a school shooter.

Lyn Sanders

A Pauls Valley resident and parent of a middle schooler who expressed concerns about the school's safety measures.

Tammy D.

A substitute teacher at Pauls Valley High School who said safety is a priority for the district and that the school is helping students through therapy dogs and other support.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“That's him. He has a heart of gold, and he loves those kids.”

— Tammy D., Pauls Valley resident

“I know that he has God on his side.”

— Twila Fowler, Pauls Valley resident

“He didn't hesitate. He went straight after the problem and took the problem out.”

— John Winget, Pauls Valley resident

“I think the principal did what he had to do in that moment.”

— Lyn Sanders, Pauls Valley resident and parent of a middle schooler

“If there had been an SRO officer at the school in front of the school, he would have never made entrance in the door, I don't think.”

— Lyn Sanders, Pauls Valley resident and parent of a middle schooler

What’s next

The school district has retained an attorney, who declined to comment on safety concerns or whether additional student resource officers will be added in the future. The community is working to heal and move forward together, with the school district helping students through therapy dogs and other support.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges schools face in ensuring student safety, even in small communities like Pauls Valley. The community's response and the questions being raised about safety protocols could lead to changes in how the school district approaches security measures and resource officer coverage to better protect students and staff.