Safe & Sound Schools Iowa Reporting System Information

Dear South Hardin Schools Family,
 
As part of South Hardin Schools commitment to our students’ safety and mental health, we want to tell you about Safe+Sound Iowa—a free, anonymous school violence reporting tool. ­­Students, parents, teachers and other community members can help identify and provide intervention for students in crisis before they harm themselves or others.  Safe+Sound Iowa is available to K–12 schools statewide at no charge by the Governor’s School Safety Bureau. It was developed to help prevent violence, unlawful possession of weapons, self-harm and other forms of victimization and threatening behaviors. Similar programs have been successful in preventing tragedy and saving lives in schools across the country.

HOW SAFE+SOUND IOWA WORKS
In past school attacks in the United States, 92% of those who noticed concerning behaviors before the events were schoolmates.* Students may not report warning signs due to feelings of anxiety or intimidation, fear of retaliation or not knowing who to talk to. Safe+Sound Iowa removes these barriers with easy, convenient and confidential ways to report safety concerns.
Reports can be made securely and anonymously: 
·       Online at SafeandSoundIowa.gov 
·       Through the Safe+Sound Iowa mobile app, or ­
·       By phone at 800-224-6018.
Trained dispatchers monitor reports 24/7 and immediately engage in two-way communication with those raising concerns. They then reach out to the appropriate local school safety contact, law enforcement or other community partners. 

WHERE TO LEARN MORE 
I have attached a one-page informational handout with this e-mail.  Additional information can also be found on SafeandSoundIowa.gov, including:
·       Informational handout about Safe+Sound Iowa 
·       Easy-to-follow guidebook detailing answers to frequently asked questions
·       Brief video demonstrating how to use the Safe+Sound Iowa app 

You can download the free Safe+Sound Iowa mobile app on the App Store and Google Play. 

Creating a safe learning environment is a top priority, and it starts with early detection of potential threats. A link to the reporting site can also be found at the bottom of our school webpage. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Adam Zellmer, Superintendent of Schools azellmer@southhardin.org