Step 3: Create a Central Reporting Mechanism

Students may elicit concern from those around them in a variety of ways. They may make threatening or concerning statements in person, online, or in text messages; they may engage in observable risky behavior; or they may turn in assignments with statements or content that is unusual or bizarre.

When this occurs, those around the student need a method of reporting their concerns to the Team.

Schools can establish one or more reporting mechanisms, such as an online form posted on the school website, a dedicated email address or phone number, smart phone application platforms, or another mechanism that is accessible for a particular school community.

Students, teachers, staff, school resource officers, and parents should be provided training and guidance on recognizing behaviors of concern, their roles and responsibilities in reporting the behavior, and how to report the information.

Teams need to be sure that a team member proactively monitors all incoming reports and can respond immediately when someone’s safety is concerned.

Regardless of what method schools choose to receive these reports, there should be an option for passing information anonymously, as students are more likely to report concerning or threatening information when they can do so without fear of retribution for coming forward.

Many reporting mechanisms employed by K-12 schools resemble nationwide criminal reporting apps. The online and phone reporting capabilities of these types of apps allow individuals across the country, including students, parents, and teachers, to report crimes and other concerning behaviors in their communities and schools.

Some reporting mechanisms are developed specifically for use by students in K-12 school settings. These programs allow students, parents, and teachers to anonymously report threats, bullying, and other situations that make them feel unsafe or fear for the safety of a peer to trained experts who respond appropriately.

The school community should feel confident that team members will be responsive to their concerns, and that reports will be acted upon, kept confidential, and handled appropriately.