Kaneland School District 302 has upgraded their SpeakUp program to include a safety tip line which can be used as a way to confidentially report bullying or threats.
This hotline, according to the SpeakUp website, is a “safe, confidential digital tip line” that allows students to report concerns about “bullying, suicide, self-harm, drug or alcohol abuse, school violence and other student safety threats.” It was upgraded through Google Workspace for Education as a way to allow for easier access to report concerns for students, staff and people within the community. Reports are submitted to Kaneland’s administrative staff, and notifications are sent to local law enforcement if they are urgent issues that need to be addressed quickly.
The district has emphasized the importance of collaboration with students, families, staff, law enforcement officials and community members to prevent threats of violence and protect students’ overall safety.
Actions worth reporting can include bullying and physical or cyber threats of violence toward the school, an individual or a group. Suspicions of illegal activities can be reported as well. This resource can be accessed by calling or texting (630) 332-0142 or emailing [email protected]. An anonymous reporting form can be filled out on the Kaneland CUSD #302 website.
“Communication is really important, and if we’re not talking to one another, there seems to be a breakdown that occurs,” School Resource Officer Eric Perkins said. “The tip line is an outlet for people who may not otherwise have an opportunity to speak up. It’s a great concept because everything is about the well-being of the students, faculty and staff.”
Perkins added that students should take responsibility in reporting anything they feel needs to be addressed. He believes that it is important to speak up if something does not feel right.
“My advice would be, ‘See something, hear something, say something,’” Perkins said. “That’s the responsible thing to do. Regardless of the outcome or who it may affect, the truth is the truth.”
School psychologist Brooke Butcher explained that the hotline is helpful for students who may be hesitant to report directly.
“It’s really the first line of defense,” Butcher said. “If students are fearful of retaliation or don’t want to speak up themselves, this gives them another way to report concerns. Staff and parents can also use it if they overhear something that may put students at risk.”
If a student or anyone in the school community tries to retaliate for reporting bullying or makes a false claim of bullying, they can face serious consequences.
According to the Kaneland website, “Any school community member who retaliates against another for reporting bullying/harassment, or who knowingly makes a false accusation of bullying/harassment or retaliation, shall be subject to strong disciplinary action as designated in the handbook.” The site also explains the three levels of bullying, along with examples of each, that the district uses to determine appropriate interventions.
The SpeakUp for Safety tip line is part of Kaneland’s ongoing effort to ensure a safe learning environment. By providing multiple ways to report concerns and protecting those who speak up, the district hopes to prevent threats and promote a safer school community.
