Introduction to School Safety
The issue of school safety has become a pressing concern in recent years, with many schools turning to technology, especially digital surveillance, as a potential solution. However, some educators and experts argue that while technology can be a useful tool, it is not a replacement for human interaction and connection. In Rigby, Idaho, a district that has implemented a multi-pronged approach to school safety, including digital surveillance, threat assessment teams, and mental health supports, the results have been promising.
The Importance of Human Connection
In Rigby, educators believe that human connection is key to preventing harm and promoting a positive school culture. The district’s superintendent, Chad Martin, emphasizes that "it’s all about culture" and that having a friend, a group of friends, or a connection somewhere is crucial. While the district uses technology, such as an app that allows students to anonymously report safety concerns and surveillance software that monitors students’ keystrokes, Martin stresses that these tools must be used in conjunction with human-led initiatives.
The Role of Threat Assessment Teams
Threat assessment teams, which are used in many schools across the US, are a key component of Rigby’s approach. These teams, made up of school staff members, use a multi-step process to identify and respond to potential threats. The teams work to understand the underlying issues that may be contributing to a student’s behavior and develop a plan to support the student. According to Dewey Cornell, a forensic clinical psychologist who developed the Comprehensive School Threat Assessment Guidelines (CSTAG), this approach is less punitive and more focused on intervention.
The Benefits of a Multi-Pronged Approach
The use of threat assessment teams, combined with digital surveillance and mental health supports, has been shown to be effective in identifying and responding to potential threats. In Utah’s Jordan School District, which uses the CSTAG model, the threat assessment team has been credited with strengthening the district’s approach to handling threats and boosting student safety and well-being. The district’s director of student services, Travis Hamblin, emphasizes that "people are the solution" and that digital tools are just one part of the equation.
Student- and Parent-Led Efforts
In addition to threat assessment teams and digital surveillance, student- and parent-led efforts have also played a crucial role in promoting school safety in Rigby. The district’s Hope Squads, which are student-led coalitions that aim to foster connection and reduce the risk of suicide, have become an active presence on campus. The groups plan special events, such as a week of mental health activities, and provide support to students who may be struggling. Parents, such as Ernie Chavez, who is part of the Dads on Duty program, also play a key role in monitoring and interacting with students.
The Impact of a Cell Phone Ban
The district’s new cell phone ban has also had a positive impact on student behavior and interaction. According to Ryan Erikson, Rigby Middle’s principal, the ban has encouraged students to engage with each other and participate in activities, rather than isolating themselves with their phones.
Conclusion
While technology can be a useful tool in promoting school safety, it is clear that human connection and interaction are essential components of a comprehensive approach. By combining digital surveillance with threat assessment teams, mental health supports, and student- and parent-led efforts, schools can create a safer and more supportive environment for all students. As Rigby’s superintendent, Chad Martin, notes, "it’s not perfect," but with a multi-pronged approach, schools can better address the complex issues that contribute to school violence and promote a positive school culture.
FAQs
Q: What is the main argument of this article?
A: The article argues that while technology can be a useful tool in promoting school safety, human connection and interaction are essential components of a comprehensive approach.
Q: What is a threat assessment team?
A: A threat assessment team is a group of school staff members who work together to identify and respond to potential threats, using a multi-step process to understand the underlying issues that may be contributing to a student’s behavior.
Q: What is the Comprehensive School Threat Assessment Guidelines (CSTAG) model?
A: The CSTAG model is a framework for threat assessment teams, developed by forensic clinical psychologist Dewey Cornell, which emphasizes a less punitive and more intervention-focused approach to responding to potential threats.
Q: What is the role of parents in promoting school safety?
A: Parents, such as those involved in the Dads on Duty program, play a key role in monitoring and interacting with students, and can help to promote a positive school culture.
Q: What is the impact of a cell phone ban on student behavior?
A: The cell phone ban has encouraged students to engage with each other and participate in activities, rather than isolating themselves with their phones.
