Dear Parent(s) and/or Guardian(s):

As a school district, we are committed to creating and sustaining a comprehensive, coordinated effort to improve the overall safety and well-being of our students, educators, and administrators. To accomplish this, community-wide programs and initiatives involving parents, teachers, administrators, local law enforcement, and mental health & wellness professionals must be involved.

We have been using this anonymous reporting system in  Grades 6-12 for the past six years. Last year, the District launched the “Say Something Anonymous Reporting System” in Grade 5. This program teaches students, teachers, and administrators how to recognize warning signs and signals, especially within social media, of individuals who may be a threat to themselves or others, and encourages them to Say Something to a trusted adult OR use its anonymous reporting system. On Monday, October 27th, Neary Grade 5 educators will be teaching their students about the Say Something Anonymous Reporting Program (ARS). 

Key features of the Say Something Anonymous Reporting Program (ARS)

• Recognize At-Risk Behaviors: Participants will learn how to identify signs of distress or harmful behaviors in their peers.

• Take Action: The program emphasizes the importance of acting quickly by either talking to a trusted adult or reporting concerns anonymously through the system.

• 24/7 Support: Students can access a Crisis Center at any time via a mobile app, website, or hotline for confidential reporting.

Our students often have unique insights into the challenges their peers face. It’s crucial that we empower them to recognize danger signs and equip them with the tools to support one another effectively. The Say Something ARS program teaches them how to look out for each other during digital conversations and in-person interactions. 

This initiative is provided by Sandy Hook Promise (SHP), a respected non-profit organization dedicated to improving school safety across the nation. With programs implemented in all 50 states and over 31 million individuals trained, SHP has a proven track record of success in preventing school shootings, suicides, and other violent incidents while reducing bullying and cyberbullying. Please visit the Say Something Website for more information.

If you have any questions about the Say Something ARS program or any related initiatives, please feel free to reach out via phone or email. Your support is invaluable as we work together to create a safe environment for our students. Thank you for your commitment to keeping our community safe. 

Respectfully,

Gregory L. Martineau                                                                      Kathleen A. Valenti

Superintendent of Schools                                                             Principal