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“As part of Newtown Public Schools continuing efforts to improve the safety and security of students and staff, we are excited to launch Anonymous Alerts, a new safety communications tool," said Joseph V. Erardi Jr., superintendent of schools in Newtown.
Users can download the app directly from the Apple, Google Play or Google Chrome stores. After downloading, the user can click the app and enter a user name and password supplied by their school.
The system operates on school days between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. Reports after 2 p.m. will be answered on the next school day.
"Students, staff, and parents can now use their smartphone or tablet to quickly, easily, and anonymously report information to school administrators at Newtown High School and Newtown Middle School," said Eradi.
Anonymous Alerts allows the student, parent or faculty member to maintain confidentiality while bringing bullying, safety concerns, student depression, drug and alcohol issues, family problems or other situations to the attention of school officials. Reports are anonymous, but submitters have the option of disclosing their identity if they choose.
“We encourage the reporting of mean behaviors, bullying, cyber-bullying, student depression, drug and alcohol issues, and other safety concerns," said Erardi. "All reports remain anonymous, although submitters have the option to reveal their identity if they prefer to have a personal and private discussion with the school administrator.”
Anonymous Alerts and its advisory board sponsored the initial purchase for the middle and high school in remembrance of the tragedy at the district's Sandy Hook Elementary School, when a gunman killed 20 first-graders and six educators in December 2012.
"We are honored and excited to partner with Newtown Public Schools," said T. Gregory Bender, president and CEO of Anonymous Alerts. "We are proud to work with their students, parents, and schools to help increase the flow of information about safety, bullying, or other concerns with the use of our patented anonymous reporting app and system."
More than 1,500 K-12 schools throughout the country have implemented the Anonymous Alerts system.
For more information, visit www.anonymousalerts.com.
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