Safer Schools Northeast

NorthEast Washington Educational Service District (NEWESD) 101, based in Spokane, WA, proposes the Safer Schools Northeast project to enhance safety and support for 59 public school districts, 45 state-approved private schools, and four charter schools in a seven-county region. This region, largely rural and including the Colville, Kalispel, and Spokane tribal reservations, faces significant challenges, including high rates of poverty, domestic abuse, youth suicide, limited mental health services, and a high prevalence of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). The 2023 Healthy Youth Survey reveals that over half of the students are at or below the poverty line, and significant percentages face issues such as feeling unsafe at school, bullying, and mental health problems.

The project will implement comprehensive safety measures, including bystander training and effective reporting systems, to empower students and staff to maintain a safe school environment. Building on the success of a threat assessment cooperative established in response to a fatal 2017 school shooting, NEWESD 101 will expand training on the Salem-Keizer Cascade threat assessment model to all eligible schools in the region adding Mead School District, and high school/college dual credit enrollment and trade programs where PK-12 students are present.

Primary activities include annual threat assessment training for school staff, law enforcement, and community partners, as well as hosting annual School Safety Summits to provide advanced training and the latest research on school safety. The project also focuses on implementing a scalable bystander training program to educate students and staff on recognizing and reporting concerning behaviors. This includes training Active Bystanders (TAB) program to empower students to take proactive roles in maintaining a safe school environment.

Expected outcomes include increased safety and coordination among school staff, law enforcement, and community partners, a reduction in incidents of violence and bullying, and improved mental health support for students. The project will also foster a culture of safety and collaboration within the education community, promoting evidence-based practices and risk management strategies.

Partners in this initiative include local law enforcement agencies, community service providers, and educational institutions such as Eastern Washington University and the Community Colleges of Spokane. These partnerships will enhance the project's reach and effectiveness, ensuring comprehensive support for all students in the region. The Safer Schools Northeast project seeks to create a safer, more supportive environment for students, staff, and the broader community, addressing critical needs and fostering long-term safety and well-being.