Often, the most important piece of safety and security is obtaining key information before someone makes the decision to commit a harmful act. Receiving tips and information in advance of anything happening allows us to investigate and take proactive steps to prevent harm from occurring. If something does not look, sound, or feel right, we encourage anyone to report the concern.

Reportable concerns can include but are not limited to, assault, physical/verbal abuse, bullying, bragging about an upcoming planned attack, depression/anxiety, fighting, gun violence/violence, harassment, hopelessness, reckless behavior, social isolation or withdrawal, substance abuse, suicidal threats or self-harm, theft, threats, or weapons (use of and/or discussion about).

Reporting a Concern During the School Day

There are numerous ways for students and parents/guardians to report concerns, including:

• Tell an adult (teacher, staff member, administrator)
• Send a Schoology message to your building principal/assistant principal/dean of students
• Submit an anonymous tip using Pennsylvania's Safe2Say Something website, mobile app, or by calling the number on the left.

Reporting a Concern Outside of School

If something happens outside of the school day, contact the local police department for an immediate response.

Investigation of Concerns

When fielding concerns, school administrators start with an investigation. During investigations, administrators are looking for specific details such as time, location, and individuals involved. The more specific, the better. Timely reporting is also key to investigations.

School actions or discipline are based upon board policy, the Student Code of Conduct, and federal/state regulations by which schools must abide, such as IDEA.