Text messages fight bullying in school

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Technology in place at some central Texas schools is allowing students to anonymously report bullying.

The "Let's Talk About It" program at Canyon Vista Middle School in Round Rock ISD has made a dramatic impact on the problem of bullies in school. The anonymous communication technology allows students to send electronic messages or text messages to administrators or teachers about many areas of concern.

Canyon Vista began using the technology in the fall of 2008.

"It gives them a way to speak honestly- there's no fear of retribution - there's no fear of students knowing that they've visited with us online," said principal Barbara Paris. "We're making headway- its not fixed, but we're on the right track."

Paris said a school survey following the 2007-2008 school year reported 75 percent of students at Canyon Vista were concerned about bullying. One year after the technology was put in place, that number dropped to 25 percent.

Eighth grader Terisha Kolencherry said most students do not talk about the program.

"I don't know a lot of people who use it, but of course, if you're using it, you don't really want to tell somebody," she said. "The good thing is- being anonymous is optional."

Paris said there have been many instances where a teacher or bus driver has been alerted to be on the lookout for bullying and the situation is resolved.

"Within 24 hours I've had emails back from those students saying- this rocks! Thank you for fixing it- and I haven't really even done anything, I've merely made the adults aware that there's a concern."

Ten schools in the Austin and Round Rock districts are using this technology which costs about $1,500 per school each year. The funding comes from a federal grant.