WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – Over the past year and a half, the Navajo Department of Diné Education in partnership with the Navajo Department of Health – Public Health Emergency Preparedness have developed a new info-hub and website with the Navajo Division for Children & Family Services that enhances school safety for Diné children.
The launch of Operation Diné School Safety (ODSS) serves as a one-stop resource for information on school safety. The website includes a hotline for reporting concerns, an anonymous threat submission form, trauma support resources, and guidance for parents and school leadership to prioritize student safety.
“It’s not a matter of if it’s going to happen, it’s a matter of when it’s going to happen,” said Dr. Ferlin Clark, incident commander for Operation Diné School Safety with the DODE School-Community Safety Task Force.
With a recent rise in school threats and violence across the Navajo Nation, the task force emphasizes the importance of community involvement. They urge students, parents, and teachers to adhere to the principle: “If you see something, say something.”
The task force encourages parents to engage actively in their child’s social media life. This involvement not only promotes healthier social media habits but also helps parents understand the reasons behind students’ troubling behaviors, including threats.
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren commends the efforts and highlights the bravery of students who speak up. He acknowledges the anxiety that threats can provoke, reminding parents and children to remain calm and informed.
“As a father, I understand the unsettling feeling of hearing about school threats. We must work together to ensure the safety of our communities and children,” he said.
