Here at John Bapst, through ethics training and assemblies, we encourage students to be effective self-advocates and report dangerous situations, bullying, and harassment to a counselor, school administrator, or teacher. At the same time, we know that sometimes people – regardless of their age – hold back. They may be afraid to make waves or worried about perception, thinking they are supposed to be able to solve their own problems. Reluctant students need a safe reporting path, and the STOP!T Hotline is designed to be just that. Here are a few details:
– STOP!T is a mobile app that can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play. It can also be accessed on the internet at: https://appweb.stopitsolutions.com
– Students or parents can submit a report or text. Photos, screenshots, and video can be included with the submission. User ID is masked, ensuring the report is anonymous.
– Reports and text messages are forwarded to a school official designated to monitor the hotline. The official has the ability to reply to text messages and start a two-way, anonymous chat.
– Note that this is not an emergency hotline. Whenever a situation comes up involving an immediate threat to health or safety, contact 911 or use the fastest way you know of to get help. Our line is monitored by administrators with the intention of moving a situation forward within 24 to 48 hours. Students may use the STOP!T hotline any time day or night, every day of the year, including weekends and vacations. After making a report or texting, the caller/texter will automatically receive a text reply that their message has been received.
Use STOP!T Hotline when you:
– Know of or hear someone talk about any kind of potential violence;
– Are being bullied and are reluctant to approach an adult;
– Think no one will understand the situation you are in;
– Know someone being harassed online or in another setting;
– Know someone who is receiving mean or hateful text messages, emails, or images.
Not sure if you should make a report or text? Do so anyway! It’s better to reach out. You hold the power to prevent dangerous situations, bullying, and cyber-bullying.
Our goal is to engage the student and begin a dialogue. Note that if the student or parent is comfortable contacting the school directly, a face-to-face conversation, phone call, or email is still a good way to communicate any serious issue. And please remember, we are here to help, but we can’t help if we don’t know.
If you have any questions or require further information, contact Dean of Students Ed Jones, ejones@johnbapst.org or Head of School Dave Armistead, darmistead@johnbapst.org.