Clark County School District offers a variety of services, among them is the anonymous reporting system SafeVoice (SV). Created to encourage students to use their voice, SV is a safe and confidential resource that is available 24 hours/7 days a week/365 days a year for those reporting a concern for school safety, a friend or classmate’s wellbeing, or if one is at risk for hurting themselves. There are three ways for a student to disclose an anonymous tip, including the SafeVoice mobile app, via the SafeVoice or Shadow Ridge website, or through the hotline 833-216-7233. 

Needless to say, an anonymous reporting tool is strictly for reporting urgent or dangerous situations, namely sexual harassment, substance abuse, self-harm, bullying, school threats, and so forth, not including gossip or to abuse the system of anonymity. To create a sound environment, it’s important to not standby on the sidelines and speak up when witnessing or hearing an unsafe situation. It is all too common to see something and not say something. As stated by SafeVoice, in the overwhelming majority of school shootings, someone was aware the student was engaged with firearms, but didn’t communicate with an authority figure.  Those who are hesitant about reporting, it is crucial to understand SafeVoice is not “snitching,” but it’s maintaining school safety and protecting friends and classmates.

Many students silently struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, and they may feel intimidated talking to an adult in-person. The confidentiality and anonymity of SafeVoice makes students feel comfortable to reach out for help for themselves or others, without fear of judgement or punishment. Instead of focusing on consequences, the program is centered on support, preventing harm, and connecting students with resources they need.

Junior Xavier Graffell expresses his concern regarding the discussion surrounding safety and mental health, “In my experience, people look at others with mental health issues differently. I feel like most students are scared to talk to somebody because mental health is considered a joke. Sometimes life just gets to you in ways that can’t be expressed clearly.” 

In a time where school safety is more important than ever, SafeVoice gives students the opportunity to make a difference and create a positive change for themselves or others. When seeing something unsafe, hear something concerning, or feel worried about someone’s well-being, speak up. One’s voice could be the one that saves a life. See something, say something.