Back-to-school personal safety: Ensuring every student's well-being on and off campus
As we send our children back to school, it’s essential to ensure they feel both physically and emotionally safe in their learning environments. Whether it’s handling bullying, practicing emergency drills, or staying safe online, here are some important tips for parents and educators to help protect students throughout the school year, with guidance from the Ellis County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
Bullying Prevention
Bullying remains one of the top concerns for students and parents. Early intervention is key:
● Encourage your child to speak up if they see or experience bullying. Schools often have confidential reporting systems or counselors who can assist.
● Teach children how to be upstanders, not bystanders. It’s important that students know how to intervene safely when they witness bullying.
● Remind your child of the importance of kindness and inclusivity in fostering a supportive school environment.
Emergency Drills and Preparedness
Emergency preparedness is vital for student safety. Schools regularly conduct drills to ensure everyone knows how to respond in a crisis:
● Review school emergency procedures with your child, including fire drills, lockdowns, and evacuation routes.
● Reassure your child that these drills are for their protection and help them feel empowered to follow instructions calmly.
Cybersecurity
As children increasingly use technology for learning and socializing, it’s important they understand how to stay safe online:
● Set clear rules for using devices, social media, and online games.
● Teach children to recognize red flags of cyberbullying, scams, and predatory behavior.
● Remind them to keep personal information private and to report any uncomfortable online interactions to an adult.
Talking to Your Child About Safety
Having open lines of communication with your child about their experiences at school is essential:
● Ask your child how their day went, and encourage them to share any concerns they may have.
● Be sure your child knows what to do in case of emergencies, and provide them with tools like emergency contact numbers.
By creating a safe environment both inside and outside the classroom, we help students thrive academically and emotionally.
For more information on school safety, please visit Ellis County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service at ellis.agrilife.org.
