In episode 3 of our School Resource Officer (SRO) series, we address a critical issue: why students often hesitate to report concerning information. Did you know that 93% of violent school events were planned in advance, and in 80% of those cases, students or others were aware of the plans? These statistics are alarming and may leave you wondering why students don’t come forward before it’s too late. As an SRO, it’s your responsibility to understand these hesitations and create an environment where students feel safe and confident seeking your help.
In this video, you’ll explore the thought processes students may have when deciding not to report what they know and discover effective ways to remove barriers and build trust with your school community. English and Spanish subtitles are available to enhance your viewing experience.
Series Description
School Resource Officers (SROs) are present in many communities across the country. SROs must be youth advocates, educators, and protectors of all students in the schools they serve. This video series helps SROs consider the way students think, how to connect with them, how to break down barriers to communication, and how to become a successful presence in their school.
The SRO video series is produced in partnership with Katherine Schweit, JD at Schweit Consulting and Rocket Media Group.
Series Playlist (6 Episodes)
Transcript
Narrator: Did you know 93% of violent school incidents were planned in advance‚ and more than 80% of the time, students or others knew about it? So, if they learn of an impending threat, why aren’t they telling you? Research shows some students don’t want to get anyone in trouble, including themselves. They hope someone else will report it or may not think it’s urgent. They may doubt the threat is real. Or, they might not know who to report it to. They may fear retaliation, and some may fear the police. There’s another big roadblock to kids coming forward: They may not trust YOU! But you can fix this!
Starting Day 1, get to know each student by name. Ask about their family, friends, talk about their interests. And ALWAYS be genuine. Share precursors to violence‚ like fascination with school shootings; word of gun purchases; or talk of suicide. Explain these actions are almost always leaked to other students beforehand. Let students know you trust them to come forward with even a rumor of potential violence, its not snitching when they can help prevent a tragedy.
Build as many pipelines of communication between you and the students as possible. Provide a way they can text you; share at school events; be seen at after school functions; put up posters, including in private locations like bathrooms. Maybe use stickers, lanyards or baseball cards with your contact information. Create fun ways to bring kids together, using snacks and games. Single interactions won’t do. Talk to fellow SROs for other ideas to maintain connections with kids.
If you’ don’t have an anonymous reporting system start one, or tie into a national system, like Safe2Tell, Say Something, or the FBI Tipline. The quality of the pipeline you build will determine your ability to tap leakage from students, which could save lives. Share those contacts too, so if students are scared or can’t reach you directly, any concerns will still be relayed.
You must assure students that they can trust you to protect their confidentiality. And remind them that what they do matters and can save lives. If you remember nothing else, remember that building trusting relationships is at the heart of your ability to create a safe school climate. It’s up to you to get students talking. See you next time.