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August 25 2010
Schenectady School District Implements Anonymous Helpline
 The
Schenectady City School District is offering a communication
tool that parents, students, teachers and
members of the community can use to anonymously report concerns
about illegal or dangerous activities concerning the school or
students.
The Safe School Helpline is a
unique, automated telephone service which allows callers to
report any allegations, concerns or suggestions confidentially.
Whether it is a student who fears being called a "snitch" or a "narc"
by peers, or a resident who worries about vandalism in
retaliation for reporting a crime, underage drinking, or any
other illegal activity, the caller will not be asked to give a
name.
The Schenectady City School District is paying about $8,000 for
the service and has committed to a trial period of one year.
District officials said the Helpline, which is just a part of
the district's overall safety plan, can serve as a preventive
measure.
Calls are made through a toll-free number (1-800-4-1-VOICE, ext.
359). The message is typed by the Helpline service staff
member off site and not associated with the school district and
then faxed to key school officials.
Each call is assigned a case number. The caller can then
call back to the Helpline to check the school district's
progress on the call or to provide more information.
Additionally, the Helpline is available to those callers who are
in crisis and need immediate assistance. Trained
counselors are available to talk with anyone seeking assistance
in coping with suicidal thoughts, depression or feelings of
loneliness or loss. Callers press '3' when prompted and
they are routed to a Community Counseling and Crisis Center that
provides a 24-hour intervention service.
While in place at another school district in the state, the
service has been credited with saving a life.
The Helpline is available 24 hours a day.
Letters, brochures and magnets have been sent home to all
district families. Posters promoting the Safe School
Helpline are located in the schools.
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