FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE) – School leaders are partnering with law enforcement and other agencies to keep students safe on campus.
Law officials say everyone can play a role in preventing violence in schools.
Most parents will tell you that one of their biggest fears about keeping their children safe at school is having a school shooter.
At this year's School Safety Symposium, hosted by the Fresno County Superintendent's Office, educators heard from legal leaders about other dangers young people face every day.
Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smitcamp said, “It's in the early stages of bullying that you have to nip it in the bud.”
No agency can protect young people from bullying, social media threats, fentanyl, traffic accidents, and more.
Fresno County Commissioner Dr. Michelle Cantwell-Cofer said, “What we need to do is look at all of us in the village differently in how we raise our children and how we keep them safe and healthy. I am aware of it,'' he said. School principal.
Educators said partnerships involving schools, law enforcement and mental health professionals can make a difference.
Fresno County Sheriff's Department Captain John Reynolds says we all have a role to play in preventing violence.
“I think the biggest threat right now is probably not saying anything,” Reynolds said.
A video produced by a Fresno County student shows other students watching children being bullied. Another video produced by Central Unified students shows a potential school shooter acting out and leaving clues about what he's planning, but no one says anything. .
“Probably the biggest challenge is getting students to actually report the behavior and not make them feel like they're snitching because they're not,” Professor Reynolds said.
Reynolds argues that providing information to counselors and members of law enforcement can help authorities intervene before it's too late.
“Our goal, especially our partnership with law enforcement and schools, is not to make an arrest, not just a temporary solution. It is to move that person away from a path of violence and in a healthy way. It’s about bringing it back into the mainstream,” Reynolds said.