It’s a new way for Michigan schools to prevent violence. The University of Michigan and the state finalized a $1 million contract to create a statewide initiative designed to improve school safety. The Michigan School Safety Initiative provides training to district leadership and staff regarding with evidence-based practices. National Center for School Safety Co-Director Justin Heinze says the initiative is available to all K-12 schools in the state.
“Unfortunately, youth violence is present in the state of Michigan,” Heinze said. “We do know that schools are very safe place for youth in general, but injuries do happen. Bullying does happen, firearm violence does happen. So, all of the efforts that we are trying to support are in service of making Michigan schools as safe as we can.”
Some strategies organizers believe improves safety outcomes include threat assessments and mental health programing. The program is available to all K-12 schools in the state. 900 public schools are already enrolled.
