Erika Bacon is the Principal of West Ridge Middle School in Austin, Texas. She has devoted 30 years to middle school education, with nine years in the classroom and 21 years in campus administration. Throughout her career, she has witnessed the evolving landscape of school safety, including legislative and district-level responses designed to protect students and staff. In 2023, Eanes ISD established its own police department, transforming how the district approaches safety and threat response. As a campus administrator, Ms. Bacon collaborates closely with the Eanes Police Department to address threats, manage discipline, and maintain a safe, supportive learning environment for all students.