The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) continues to implement its School Safety Framework, a board priority that utilizes nine specific conditions to help schools develop comprehensive safety policies, protocols, and partnerships. The framework is supported by specialized teams dedicated to prevention, school safety centers, and student services.
SafeUT Crisis Intervention
As part of its ongoing safety initiatives, the USBE operates the SafeUT application, which provides 24/7 access to crisis support. The program allows individuals in crisis to connect immediately with a masters-level counselor through either phone calls or chat functions.
Beyond direct crisis intervention, the SafeUT application serves as a reporting tool for community members. Users can submit tips through the app if they have concerns regarding a possible threat to a school or are concerned about the well-being of another student. The services provided via the application are delivered by the Huntsman Mental Health Institute (HMHI) at the University of Utah and are funded through the Utah State Legislature.
Prevention and Student Well-being
The USBE Prevention team works in collaboration with educators, families, and local communities to identify risk factors and increase protective factors for students. This team aims to provide equitable access to resources within a safe environment to foster student well-being across all life stages.
Prevention specialists within the board are now working together on all prevention-related matters. The department also provides specific resources for parents, including guides regarding the harmful effects of pornography and substance abuse prevention materials. For inquiries related to prevention efforts, the USBE directs requests to their dedicated prevention email.
Safety Center Resources
The School Safety Center functions as a central hub for strengthening safety efforts across the state. The center provides technical assistance, develops necessary resources, and creates training materials and protocols for schools to follow.
One notable program mentioned in relation to school safety is 'Staying Safe,' a signature program of the organization Safe and Sound Schools. Developed in honor of Michele Gay's daughter, Josephine Grace, this program is designed to empower schools to support all student populations, regardless of their specific developmental abilities or needs.
Comprehensive Student Services
The USBE Student Services team works alongside community partners, educators, and families to help students manage their educational experiences. This work encompasses several critical areas, including academic support, nursing and wellness intervention, school counseling, and the management of student and family rights.
In addition to academic and behavioral health services, the student services division also oversees mental health and behavioral health services, ensuring that students have access to necessary care throughout their schooling.
Available Grant Opportunities
To support these safety and service initiatives, the USBE manages several grant opportunities designed to fund specific school needs. These include the School-based Mental Health Qualifying Grant Program (SBMHQGP) and the School-based Mental Health Screening Grant (SBMHSG).
Other available funding streams include the Juvenile Gang Prevention Grant, the Prevention Block Grant, and a grant for the School Safety and Security Specialist Stipend. The board also offers the Grow Your Own Educator Pipeline Program Grant to support long-term educational stability.
Statewide Collaboration
The USBE maintains various professional resources for stakeholders, including lists of laws and policies, professional learning opportunities, newsletters, and listservs. The board also engages in state-level collaboration through the School Security Task Force established by the Utah State Legislature.
