The Colorado School Safety Resource Center hosted three regional Student-Staff School Safety Summits across the state in early 2025. These events took place on January 15th in La Junta, January 29th in Durango, and virtually on February 26th. Each summit aimed to foster safer and more inclusive school environments.
The plenary session, led by Rise Above Colorado, offered a comprehensive, data-informed look at relevant issues. For instance, Rise Above Colorado focused on substance use among Colorado teens, aiming to correct misconceptions and promote healthy choices. These keynotes empowered students to critically analyze media influences, navigate peer pressure effectively, and cultivate supportive relationships. Furthermore, they provided essential information regarding the dangers of fentanyl. The goal was to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence to positively shape their futures and communities.
Following the plenary, attendees participated in three breakout sessions. The breakout sessions were designed so that everyone rotated through all three topics, with school staff expected to remain with their students to gather their feedback and discuss strategies for addressing the content within their schools.
The three breakout session topics were:
- Building Safe and Inclusive Schools: Where Everyone Belongs: This workshop explored the elements contributing to a sense of safety and belonging in schools, both physically and psychologically. Participants engaged in group discussions and safe space mapping to identify factors that make them feel safe and valued. The session also highlighted the role of trusted adults in fostering inclusion, building connections, and promoting a culture of belonging, with the goal of providing actionable insights for creating supportive school environments.
- Substance Use in Schools: Understanding the Landscape and Supporting Each Other: This interactive workshop anonymously gathered student perspectives on the types of substances encountered in schools and among peers, with a specific focus on methods of delivery like vaping. Students explored strategies for resisting peer pressure, staying substance-free, and recognizing when a friend might need help. The session aimed to create a safe space for open conversation and equip students with knowledge and resources to support themselves and their peers in making healthy choices.
- Popular Media and Healthy Relationships: This engaging workshop examined how various forms of popular media influence students' understanding of relationships, including love, friendship, and family dynamics. Participants learned to critically evaluate media messages, differentiate between media portrayals and their own values, and develop agency in building relationships aligned with their personal goals and aspirations. The session aimed to spark meaningful conversations and provide educators and counselors with practical strategies.
