(The Center Square) – Michigan’s K-12 confidential student safety tip line saw a 20% increase in the number of reports in 2024.
With a record-breaking 11,671 tips received, that is the most reports the OK2SAY system has received since it was first implemented in 2014.
Public officials have applauded the program for preventing violence and making Michigan’s students safer.
“This isn’t just about reporting concerns; it’s about fostering a culture of courage,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police. “Every tip, every act of speaking up, is a testament to a student’s commitment to their community . . . This courage is the very foundation of safer schools and stronger communities.”
The system operates year-round, even in summer months. Through it, students, staff, parents or community members can anonymously report threats to their own and others’ safety.
The 2024 OK2SAY report details 25 different categories of reports. Last year, the most common categories included:
• Bullying – 2,005 tips
• Suicide – 1,608 tips
• Other (e.g., anxiety, stress. depression, harassment) – 1,376 tips
• Drugs – 1,301 tips
• Sexual assault/misconduct /exploitation – 1,059 tips
Once a report is made, parents might be notified, school officials or local authorities might conduct a welfare check, or counseling might even be recommended.
Since the system was first implemented a decade ago, there have been 61,719 cumulative tips. In recent years, the number of reports have been consistently trending upwards.
“The significant increase in tips submitted to OK2SAY confirms the program’s positive impact on breaking the culture of silence,” the report said. “This surge in reporting demonstrates a tangible shift towards a more proactive and supportive environment, where individuals feel empowered to speak up and critical issues can be addressed before they escalate.”
An analysis of nearly 4,000 reports found that 86% of tips were eligible for investigation and that in 70% officials were unaware of the issue before the report.
In 2024, of the 11,671 tips, there were 8,952 associated incidents. Of those incidents, 25 resulted in the seizure of a weapon and 228 in the seizure of drugs or alcohol.
School safety has been a priority for the state, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2021 Oxford High School mass shooting.
Politicians from both sides of the aisle have labeled school safety a top issue, proposing different legislation this session to address the issue.
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State Rep. Joseph Pavlov, R-Smiths Creek, was one of those. His bill, which passed the House but is currently stalled in the Senate, would require safety and security training for school personnel.
“Keeping our kids safe while in school ought to be one of the highest priorities of our state’s lawmakers,” Pavlov said. “No parent should have to fear for their child’s safety while they are at school.”