As Michigan's new school year gets underway, the state's Attorney General, top education official, and police are highlighting OK2SAY, a program designed to keep students safe. According to a press release from the Michigan Attorney General, the initiative provides a confidential means for individuals to report threats or concerns related to school safety.
Attorney General Dana Nessel emphasized the importance of the program, highlighting that it allows for the anonymous reporting of potential dangers and ensures that threats are taken seriously, with the perpetrators being held accountable, while State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice and Michigan State Police (MSP) Director Col. James F. Grady II are chiming in to remind parents and students about the value of the resource, especially as the robust echoes of school bells mark the return of bustling halls and the quiet minds awaiting knowledge. OK2SAY, which falls under the MSP Office of School Safety, has received over 60,000 tips since its 2014 inception, with the previous year racking up 11,719 instances of outreach.
Col. Grady described the program as one that "transforms students into active partners in their own safety," a sentiment echoed in the MSP's pride in promoting a culture where speaking out is encouraged, and each tip signifies a student's investment in their community's well-being, as reported in the Michigan Attorney General. The top five categories of reports last year ranged from bullying and suicide threats to substance abuse and sexual misconduct. Schools are also being reminded to keep emergency contact info for officials up to date every six months, aiding in prompt and effective response and communication.
Dr. Rice pointed to the program's role in creating a safer environment for learning, contributing to the overall health, safety, and wellness of students as part of Michigan's Top 10 Strategic Education Plan goals, stressing the difficulty students face in learning when fear, bullying, or mental health issues such as anxiety or depression are present, OK2SAY stands as one tool among many aimed at addressing these issues, bettering the educational experience. The service is widely available to both public and nonpublic schools across the state; individuals can submit non-emergency tips through multiple channels, including calling 8-555-OK2SAY, texting 652729 (OK2SAY), sending an email, visiting the OK2SAY website, or using the mobile app on various devices.
