Sandy Hook Tip System Logs 400K Safety Reports

Anonymous tip system helps prevent school violence nationwide.

The anonymous tip system created after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting has received nearly 400,000 reports, reflecting how widely it has been adopted as a tool to prevent school violence and other crises.

The program, called Say Something, was launched by Sandy Hook Promise, a group started in 2013 by families of victims, including Nicole Hockley. Her 6-year-old son Dylan was among the 26 people killed in the attack, and she has since worked to turn that loss into prevention efforts.

The initiative trains students to recognize warning signs of potential violence or self-harm — such as threats on social media, sudden behavioral changes or fascination with weapons — and encourages them to report concerns anonymously or to a trusted adult. Trained crisis counselors monitor the system around the clock and alert school officials or law enforcement when necessary.

Since its launch, the system has collected hundreds of thousands of tips, most related to bullying, drug use, harassment and mental health concerns. Some have involved serious threats. In one case, a report led to the arrest of a student in Indiana who was planning a school shooting, demonstrating how early intervention can stop potential tragedies.

Students say the program helps them feel safer, especially in an era where school shootings and lockdown drills are a regular part of life. By removing the fear of being labeled a “tattletale,” the anonymous system makes it easier for young people to speak up and potentially save lives.