Promise to Protect

The Safe Environment Program teaches students to protect themselves from
inappropriate advances and potential abuse. The certified school counselor regularly
visits all classes to present developmentally appropriate information to teach students
how to protect themselves from those who might try to harm them. Teachers, staff
members and parents are also trained to be alert to signs of sexual and other forms of
abuse.

Parents may choose to opt out of these classes if they are not comfortable with the
Safe Environment Program and desire to teach their children about these matters
themselves. A written note expressing this option must be submitted to the child’s
homeroom teacher during the first week of school as class visits are scheduled during
the first quarter of the school year. Additional visits may occur throughout the year.

Parents and guardians should understand that State Law requires a teacher or
administrator who has reasonable suspicion that sexual or physical abuse has occurred
to report this to the Division of Children and Family Services. The teacher or
administrator who fails to fulfill this responsibility can be charged with sexual or physical
abuse because the silence contributes to the crime. Victims of sexual abuse should
contact Diocesan Victims Assistance Coordinator Dr. James Gagnon at 850/877-2465.