DENVER — There has been a large increase in the number of Colorado students reporting potential violent problems using the Safe2Tell program.
Safe2Tell allows people to anonymously report situations that can potentially put people in danger. The number of reports being made has been steadily climbing every year.
In November, there were nearly 2,600 tips, a 13% increase from the same time last year.
So far this school year, there have been nearly 9,400 tips, a 30% increase over last school year.
Evan Todd is a survivor of the Columbine High School shooting. He said Safe2Tell is effective.
“Every single time something like this happens, the perpetrator who commits the horrible acts has said something. There’s always signs to show their intent,” Todd said.
Essi Ellis, the director of the program, said the program is helping prevent harm and saving the lives of young people dealing with suicide threats, bullying and drugs.
“It really means to us that students are willing to break the code of silence and talk about safety concerns taking place in their schools and communities,” Ellis said.
Ellis also believes more reports are being made because of increased awareness of the 15-year-old program.
Additionally, Safe2Tell staff recently grew from three to seven to handle the growing program.