Communicating Safety in K–12 Schools: The Importance of Bystander Intervention

Thoughtful engagement of bystanders is critical to successful school safety and threat prevention efforts. When students, staff, and parents feel empowered to speak up—and when their concerns are met with support and action—we create safer, more responsive school environments.
 
Yet, many campuses still struggle with barriers to reporting. Whether it’s fear of retaliation, skepticism that concerns will be addressed, or confusion about what can be shared, these challenges often lead to a groupthink mentality, where silence becomes the norm—and early warning signs are missed.
 
Create safe, accessible reporting mechanisms for students and staff
Empower bystanders to recognize and act on concerning behaviors
Reduce the influence of groupthink through open, honest dialogue
Clarify FERPA guidelines so staff know how and when they can share safety-related concerns. appropriately and legally