As part of Safe Schools Week, Clara Brownell’s middle school leadership students reflected on school safety. Students shared appreciation for the people who keep them safe and gave their own ideas for building a safe school culture. Their answers were clear, heartfelt, and full of insight.
Some students named staff members as people who make them feel safe every day. Whether it's someone who checks in regularly, offers a helping hand, or simply listens without judgment, students value having school staff members who care for them and help them feel secure.
"If you need help, or if I ever need help, I just go talk to the counselor because she’s very nice and understanding." – Maddox, 8th Grade
Students also talked about their feelings during scary situations. Drills and emergency responses aren't just routines, they are moments in time where students notice how seriously the school takes their safety.
"We went on lockdown one time, and Ms. Lorence - our teachers - they all made us feel comfortable. She made sure we were okay. It just - it made us feel good and it made us feel safe." – Lucille, 8th Grade
So what does a safe school look like, from a student’s perspective? It looks like a place where everyone belongs and everyone is welcome. In a safe school, we see students and staff treating each other with respect, taking safety threats seriously and standing up for one another.
“A safe school is where everyone is aware of their surroundings, and everyone is kind to each other.” – Jaylah, 7th Grade
When asked how we can keep each other safe, students pointed to their peers, Calling on them to show empathy, speak up for one another, and create spaces where all students feel at home.
“I think students can keep each other safe by not rough-housing, not fighting and being kind to each other and supporting each other’s feelings.” – Anthony, 7th Grade
As we reflect during Safe Schools Week, these student voices remind us that safety is more than locked doors or emergency drills. It’s about relationships, belonging, and shared responsibility.
Let’s keep listening and let’s keep working together to build schools where every student feels safe, supported, and included.
Watch the video: