Michigan State Attorney General Dana Nessel released the Annual Report for the OK2SAY program last week. The student safety program provides an opportunity for students across Michigan to submit anonymous tips about criminal activity or potential harm directed at students, school employees, and schools.
OK2SAY received 5,742 tips in 2019, and the top five categories were:
- 1,298 tips on suicide threats
- 1,001 tips on bullying
- 624 tips on drugs
- 401 tips related to “other” (e.g., anxiety, stress, depression, harassment)
- 368 tips on self-harm
When a tip is reported, specially trained OK2SAY technicians at the Michigan State Police screen and forward them to the appropriate responding agency. Agencies include local law enforcement, schools, local community mental health organizations, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
“OK2SAY has done more than save lives, it’s prevented violence and has ensured that Michigan students have a safe place to learn and grow,” said Nessel. “OK2SAY has played an important role in helping students get the support they need, both in school and out in their communities.”
Tips can be submitted by phone at 8-555-OK2SAY, TEXT: OK2SAY ( 652729), or email OK2SAY@MI.gov.
There is also an OK2SAY mobile App and website <HERE>.
Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand
