CNN —Anonymous reporting systems used by schoolchildren to report concerning behavior among their peers has resulted in the prevention of numerous instances of suicide, school violence and planned attacks, according to a study published Wednesday.
The firearm-related tips received by the anonymous reporting system included potential school shootings, observing someone in possession of a weapon, bullying, and harassment or intimidation, according to the study.
The Sandy Hook Promise’s Say Something Anonymous Reporting System serves more than 5 million students in sixth through 12th grade in 23 states, according to the study.
Other areas use the StopIt anonymous reporting system or unique apps for students in a particular school district for students to report threats.
While the topic of gun control can be politically polarizing in the US, improving mechanisms for anonymous reporting of threats by students has been met with bipartisan support.
Persons:
Sandy, Sandy Hook, ”, Mary Ellen O’Toole, Robert Taylor, ” Taylor, Luke Meerman, Meerman, Rather, Dr, Sanjay Gupta, Sen, Scott Wilk, ” Wilk, Holly Yan, Annette Choi
Organizations:
CNN, Anonymous, Chaiken Foundation, US Centers for Disease Control, University of Michigan, CDC, International Association for Suicide Prevention, Befrienders, Public, FBI, US Secret Service, “ Research, Wake County Public School System, Oxford High School, Republican, Democratic, CNN Health, Saugus High School
Locations:
Wake, North Carolina, Michigan, California, Saugus, Los Angeles