A recent report from Safe2Tell, a violence intervention and prevention program in Colorado, revealed a record number of reports for the 2023-2024 school year. The Colorado Attorney General's Office released the annual report, noting 28,218 submissions. Concerns such as suicide, bullying, drugs, and school threats topped the list. Notably, school complaints became the most-reported category for the first time.
Attorney General Phil Weiser commented on the increase in reports: “The rise in reports reflects both the increasing challenges young people are facing and the commitment of Safe2Tell’s trainers and ambassadors in building awareness across Colorado.” He emphasized that students need support more than ever.
Compared to last year's 22,246 reports, there was a significant increase this year. School complaints accounted for 2,856 reports; suicide threats were at 2,847; bullying followed closely with 2,832. Together with drugs (1,473) and threats (1,062), these categories represented over 41% of all submissions. The program has been effective in safeguarding student safety through parental involvement and other interventions.
The report suggests changes for the next school year by replacing broad categories with specific ones: staff-related concerns, facility issues, and policy-related safety matters. Safe2Tell Director Stacey Jenkins stated: “These categories sharpen our focus on specific safety concerns.”
Safe2Tell also launched a Gold Star program to honor schools excelling in education related to their mission. Stargate Charter School was recognized as the first Gold Star School.
The annual report highlighted that only 3.7% of reports were false—those submitted with malicious intent.
In October alone, there were 3,492 reports—a decrease from September—with major issues being suicide (411), bullying (352), and staff-related safety concerns (303). False reporting was down to 2.5%.
Safe2Tell provides an anonymous reporting channel but is not an emergency response or crisis counseling service. Reports can be made via phone at any time or through their website or mobile app.