The safety and security of our students and staff is our top priority in the CCSD. That said, We are pleased to announce that beginning Monday, Nov. 1, students in grades 6-12 will have access to the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System (SS-ARS). Through an app on their iPads, as well as through our website or their phones, students will be able to anonymously report a threat to the school, a classmate or teacher, or someone considering harming themself.

Our students and staff have already been trained on 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 to “Say Something” to a trusted adult OR use the anonymous reporting system.

Specifically, we have educated students and adult participants 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
• Adults will respond to and manage the submitted tips using a tip management system overseen by a designated school team

To be successful, I believe this must involve everyone — our parents, teachers, administrators, local law enforcement, mental health, and wellness professionals — to take meaningful action to protect our students.

Our students are often aware of the problems their peers are facing, so we must empower them to recognize the danger signs and give them the tools to help each other with the assistance of trained and caring adults. As you know, most conversations are taking place on social media, therefore it is critical that we teach our students to look out for one another as these digital conversations are taking place. The “Say Something” program has taught them what to look for while empowering them to act quickly to help a fellow student.

The SS-ARS program is provided by Sandy Hook Promise (SHP), a nationwide non-profit organization. SHP’s programs are in 50 states – with 14,000+ schools and over 12 million students and adults trained. To date, SS-ARS and other SHP prevention programs have helped stop multiple school shootings, suicides, and gun threats, The program has reduced bullying and cyberbullying, intervened in cutting, drug use, and other violent and victimization acts. I know this program will do the same for our district.

If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call, or email me directly.

Sincerely,

Jeff Talbert, Superintendent
Canton City Schools