Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District has launched the StopIt platform for students at Partnership Middle School and Armstrong Junior High School. The digital application allows students to anonymously report issues like bullying, harassment, fighting, safety concerns, mental health issues or other problems students encounter that could impact the learning environment. Reports are delivered to building-level administrators who can address concerns immediately.
"StopIt is a system that I've used for a long time," said Dr. Randy Grierson, Principal of Armstrong Junior High School. "It has eliminated a lot of altercations between students, taught children how to problem solve, how to be responsible, and that's really what we're trying to teach – to eliminate things from happening."
The district is piloting the StopIt program for middle school and junior high students in an effort to stop potential concerns before they escalate, as well as provide students and families with available resources. Bullying, cyberbullying, suicide or self-harm, school violence, and substance abuse are just a few of the risk factors young teenagers face. Staff at Armstrong and Partnership are hoping the availability of anonymous reporting will remind students they are not alone and that they don't have to be embarrassed to share their concerns.
Students at both schools participated in activities and training in how to use the StopIt application, which is available through their school-issued Chromebook device. Students and families may also download the StopIt mobile app for use at home.
"We're very excited about the possibilities this application will give our staff at Armstrong and Partnership to serve students," said SOCSD Superintendent, Dr. Tony McGee. "The health and safety of our students is always our top priority, and we believe this resource will help us continue to create a positive learning environment for our boys and girls during the critical middle school years."
When reports are submitted through the app at each school, a notification is send via text message to multiple designated staff members. Administrators and counselors are able to view the report as well as any responses from staff members. They can interact with the student who submitted the report anonymously and address concerns or ask additional questions.
Since implementation a few weeks ago, administrators at both schools have been pleased with how students have responded.
"It's just another resource for students where they feel safe to share concerns," said Jorine Neal, Principal at Partnership Middle School. "Immediately when we implemented it, we got some pings where students shared important information that we needed to follow up on. Since then, we've been able to support the family and students and put them in touch with resources."
In addition to anonymous reporting, the StopIt app also allows students or parent users to upload photos or screenshots to provide additional details that may be needed to address concerns. The app also includes a real-time chat feature that puts students in contact with professionals who can help address problems. Any reports of violence or self-harm are immediately reported to school officials via a phone call from StopIt.
"We want kids in school," said Dr. Grierson. "We don't want to send kids home or to in-school detention. We want kids in classrooms. We want kids learning. Our first responsibility is safety of all students and staff, and we are already seeing how the StopIt app is helping us stop issues before they can escalate and inhibit learning."