Jamestown Public Schools Launches Anonymous Reporting System
JAMESTOWN, N.Y. – Jamestown Public Schools has launched a Say Something Anonymous Reporting System in partnership with Sandy Hook Promise and Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES.
“As a school district, we are committed to creating and sustaining a comprehensive, coordinated effort to improve the overall safety and well-being of our students, educators, administrators, and the community at large,” said Dr. Kevin Whitaker, JPS Superintendent. “The Say Something Anonymous Reporting System is a community-wide program and initiative involving parents, teachers, administrators, local law enforcement, mental health and wellness professionals, and elected officials as we strive to take meaningful action to protect our students.”
The system, made possible through grant funding acquired by E2CCB, teaches students in grades 6-12, as well as teachers and administrators, how to recognize warning signals and threats on social media, in school, or in their community, of individuals who may be a threat to themselves or others and report the behavior to a trusted adult or use an anonymous reporting system.
JPS students and staff received formal training earlier in November on how to:
- Recognize the signs and threats of at-risk behaviors
- Take every sign and signal seriously and act quickly to get help by talking to a trusted adult, OR report it anonymously to the SS-ARS 24/7/365 Crisis Center via a mobile app, website, or telephone hotline
- Respond to and manage the submitted tips using a tip management system overseen by a designated school team
- Sustain the curriculum and awareness via student clubs, in-school activities and call-to-action weeks
The SS-ARS program is made possible by Sandy Hook Promise (SHP), a nation-wide non-profit organization. SHP’s programs are in 50 states – with over 14,000 schools and over 12 million students and adults trained.
“Sandy Hook Promise has a track record, reputation, and knowledge of how to work effectively with kids, parents, and teachers to improve school safety and culture,” said Bradley Meyers, JPS Safety and Security Advisor. “The program is age-appropriate and research-based and has helped stop multiple school shootings, suicides, and gun threats. The program has reduced bullying and cyberbullying, intervened upon cutting, drug use, and other violent acts. We know this program will do the same for our district.”
For more information on the program, visit jpsny.org/SHP.