Nearly seven months after 8-year-old Adrian Thompson died following a choking incident at school, Lindale residents are still asking the district for answers, and they’re not letting up.
At the Lindale ISD Board of Trustees’ regular meeting on Monday, Nov. 9, several community members used the public comment period to press the district for more transparency and accountability.
What Happened at the Meeting
The only formal action reported from the meeting was the board’s approval of a district employee’s resignation. That resignation followed allegations that the employee served alcohol to minors at a party at her home.
Some residents said the quick action in that case highlighted what they see as a lack of accountability after Adrian’s death. Resident Heather Duddle said the resignation was deserved but argued that the district’s handling of the Thompson case was far worse. “So why is there no accountability on this level?” she asked.
Speakers called for clear answers about the emergency response that day. They also asked the district to require more emergency response training for staff and school volunteers.
Background on the Case
Adrian, a student at Velma Penny Elementary School, choked while eating lunch in the school cafeteria on April 15 and died the next day.
The district has said the school nurse attempted lifesaving measures, including the Heimlich maneuver, a LifeVac device and CPR. The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office later ruled the death accidental, caused by choking. The Texas Rangers also investigated.
Since then, Adrian’s family has pushed for answers through the district’s formal grievance process. Superintendent Stan Surratt has told trustees that the district has added more staff training since the incident, and the district has said it would seek an independent review of its safety equipment and emergency procedures.
Community Pressure Keeps Growing
Organizers say they have gathered more than 5,400 signatures on a petition calling for the resignation of the staff member involved in the cafeteria incident, and more than 500 signatures calling for the superintendent to step down.
The district had not made any new public statement about the case as of this week. Residents say they will keep showing up until their concerns are addressed.
Our thoughts remain with Adrian’s family and everyone in the Lindale community affected by this loss.