Every student has the right to feel safe at school.

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Iowa Safe Schools offers direct services and supports to students who have been bullied anywhere in the state of Iowa. Our main office is located in Des Moines, but our team is able to come directly to you wherever you are. Our services are tailored to YOUR experience and what you want help with. We also provide support and information to parents and teachers of students who have been bullied.

Every student’s experience is going to be different, so the services we provide change to suit that. Here’s a list of some of, but not all, the direct services we provide:

• Information and referral to helpful resources
• Individual counseling
• Safety planning
• Personal advocacy – Working with you and your school to make sure you have a safe environment to go to every day
• Co-advocacy with other agencies
• Assistance with legal options

If you’ve been bullied or discriminated against, here are some steps you can follow to make sure you can make a clear and complete report to your school, if you choose to do so.

1. Document, document, document! We know that any time you experience bulling or harassment it can really throw you off, but it’s vital to make sure you know where, when, and who was involved in any incidents. This makes it easier for your school to help. Make sure you write down what was said or done to you, in as much detail as possible.
2. Tell someone! You have the right to go to school and be free from bullying and harassment. If you experience any of that, go to someone you trust at your school and tell them. Or tell your parents. If you aren't sure if either of these options work for you, contact us and we can help you find a supportive adult to chat with.
3. Get help and support! You’re not alone. Our advocates can help you get connected with supports in your community. Connect with our GSA Coordinator, Hannah Mitchell for resources and support.

An advocate is someone who has the ability to work with students who have been bullied, and can help them navigate what their rights are and how they can make the bullying stop.

Iowa Safe Schools provide supports and resources that address the specific needs of the individual student, meaning services and supports will look different for every person. If you are in need of advocacy services, email us or call 515-381-0588.

We can come to you, for free! Iowa Safe Schools provides advocacy and support to all 99 counties of Iowa at no cost to you. We believe that everyone should have access to services, no matter where they are.

No. Iowa Safe Schools’ staff are not mandatory reporters, and we honor confidentiality. Anything you discuss with Iowa Safe Schools will remain confidential, including any identities you may disclose, unless you are in immediate danger of harm or harming yourself or others.

Connect with us! Iowa Safe Schools believes that EVERY student has the right to feel safe and affirmed in who they are, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. We are here to help.