EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The Gadsden Independent School District will be changing its reporting system at two Chaparral schools due to an increase in false reports, the school district announced in a press release on Wednesday, Sept. 18.
The school district says it will suspend the use of the “STOPit” app at Chaparral High School and Chaparral Middle School on Wednesday, as “numerous false reports of weapons on campus have significantly disrupted the instructional day and affected the overall sense of security for students and staff.”
In place of the app, the school district says it will implement the “Chaparral Safe Reporting System” which will require users to identify themselves and will offer a “confidential way to report concerns such as bullying, harassment, mental health issues, inappropriate conduct, and threats.”
The system is not an app but a secure Google Form accessible through a QR code that will be posted throughout the schools, according to the school district.
“By including personal details and context, the system empowers students to contribute actively to the safety of their school. Additionally, the system emphasizes the consequences of submitting false information, promoting a sense of responsibility and trust,” the school district said.
The school district says its also offering a $500 reward for information leading to the identification of those responsible for submitting false reports. Students and the community can use the new system to provide details that could help identify these individuals. The reporting link will also be available on the websites of Chaparral High School and Chaparral Middle School.
For those wanting additional information or to report concerns, they can contact the schools directly.
For those seeking alternative resources for anonymous support, the following options are available:
988: A free, private, and confidential support service available 24/7. Individuals can call, text, or chat at www.988lifeline.org/chat.
Kid-Talk: Available for children and teens under 17, offering non-judgmental support. Kids can call or text and choose to remain anonymous.
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