MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools district is rolling out a new program aimed at keeping kids safe in the classroom.
The district is launching the Say Something anonymous reporting system at its middle and high schools. Student training on the program began on Jan. 25.
Say Something is a violence prevention program from the nonprofit Sandy Hook Promise. The program allows both students and adults to submit anonymous safety concerns through an app, website, or hotline.
The program was first rolled out in the state in 2019. The neighboring school district, Union County School District, is already using the program.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Union County Public Schools launch new safety app
CMS district leaders said it can help identify at-risk individuals before they hurt themselves or others. It's being employed in an effort to prevent violence, suicide, bullying, and other forms of threatening behavior.
Long-time educators and those who work with students believe it’s a good idea -- if schools can get students to use it.
“I think it’s a first step. I don’t think it’s going to be the know-all, tell-all, do-all solution, but it’s a first step," one man told Kendall Morris. "Something has to be done.”
The rollout of the program comes after a series of violent incidents on CMS campuses. Notably, two guns were found at Hopewell High School in November following a fight.
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