Understanding the Factors Behind Rising Rates

Several factors contribute to the increase in student suicide rates. Academic pressure, social media influences, and a lack of mental health resources all play significant roles. A study published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology found that the pressure to perform well academically, coupled with the constant connectivity of social media, can exacerbate feelings of isolation and inadequacy among students. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic further intensified mental health challenges, with many students experiencing disruptions to their education, social lives, and support systems.

The American College Health Association reported that in 2021, 66% of college students felt overwhelming anxiety, and 41% reported feelings of depression so severe that they struggled to function. This alarming data underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to address mental health in educational environments.

Recognizing Early Warning Signs

Understanding and recognizing the early warning signs of mental health struggles is crucial for preventing student suicide. Warning signs can manifest in various ways, and it’s essential for educators, parents, and peers to be vigilant. Some common signs include:

• Changes in Behavior: Noticeable shifts in mood, energy levels, or social interactions. A previously outgoing student may become withdrawn or irritable.
• Declining Academic Performance: A sudden drop in grades or loss of interest in academic activities can signal underlying mental health issues.
• Verbal Indicators: Expressions of hopelessness, worthlessness, or statements about wanting to escape or end one’s life should be taken seriously.
• Substance Abuse: Increased use of drugs or alcohol can be a coping mechanism for students struggling with mental health issues.
• Physical Symptoms: Frequent complaints of headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained physical ailments can indicate emotional distress.

By training educators and staff to recognize these signs and providing resources for reporting abnormal changes in student behaviors, schools can intervene and create an environment where students feel supported and understood.

Active Defender’s School Safety Platform provides a Student Behavioral Analysis Reporting feature that allows teachers and staff to effectively and efficiently report worrisome changes in student behavior that go beyond typical adolescent norms. The system streamlines the process of analyzing student behavior, reporting detailed concerns to designated school staff, and documenting outcomes to include the school’s proactive efforts to intervene and provide support.

Best Practices for Combating Student Suicide

Addressing the rising rates of student suicide requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, prevention, and support. Here are some effective strategies:

Increase Mental Health Resources – Schools and universities should invest in mental health services, including counseling and support groups. Providing easy access to trained professionals can help students receive the care they need. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) emphasizes that mental health resources should be as readily available as academic support.

Implement Training Programs – Educators, staff, and students should be trained in mental health first aid. Programs like Mental Health First Aid provide participants with the skills to identify and respond to mental health crises effectively. Training can empower students and staff to support one another and encourage open discussions about mental health.

Foster Open Communication – Creating a culture of openness around mental health can significantly impact student well-being. Schools should promote dialogue about mental health issues through workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns. Encouraging students to share their experiences and challenges can reduce stigma and create a supportive community.

Encourage Peer Support Programs – Peer support programs can provide students with a safe space to discuss their struggles and seek help from fellow students. Training peer mentors can foster a sense of belonging and connection, making it easier for students to reach out for help.

Promote Healthy Coping Strategies – Teaching students effective coping mechanisms is vital. Schools can implement programs that focus on stress management, mindfulness, and resilience-building. Activities such as yoga, meditation, and art therapy can provide students with healthy outlets for their emotions.

Parental Involvement – Engaging parents in conversations about mental health can lead to early detection of issues and increased support at home. Schools should offer resources and workshops for parents to help them understand the signs of mental health struggles and how to approach the topic with their children.

Conclusion

The rise in student suicide rates is a complex and urgent issue that requires collective action. By recognizing early warning signs, increasing mental health resources, fostering open communication, and implementing effective prevention strategies, we can create a supportive environment that prioritizes student well-being. Each student deserves the opportunity to thrive, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the support they need. Together, we can work to combat this crisis and promote mental health awareness in our schools and communities.

Who is Active Defender?

Active Defender is a leading School Safety Platform providing an additional layer of campus safety unlike anything else available. Their technology revolutionizes emergency alerting and communication through the most comprehensive situational awareness available during a crisis. With Active Defender, ALL staff can immediately know WHAT the threat is, WHERE it is located, understand WHAT TO DO, and REPORT their STATUS on a custom, dynamic campus map on their mobile device.

To learn more, visit Active Defender, view an informational video, or take the first step toward enhancing campus safety by scheduling an interactive demo!

Calling all students in grades 3-12! Active Defender, a leading advocate of school safety and provider of the world’s most advanced campus emergency alerting/communication platform, is proud to sponsor a student essay contest focused on “Making Schools Safer.” This article highlights Active Defender’s commitment to valuing student voices and recognizing the immense power inherent in young individuals’ minds.

Empowering Student Voice: A Core Principle of Active Defender

Active Defender firmly believes that students’ perspectives, ideas, and insights are invaluable in shaping a safer and more secure educational environment. By focusing on the critical theme of school safety, this essay contest aims to harness the creativity, innovation, and fresh thinking that young minds bring to the table.

Nurturing the Power of Young Minds

A vital aspect of this contest is recognizing the power embedded in students’ minds. Active Defender acknowledges that students are not just passive recipients of safety measures but active contributors capable of generating meaningful solutions. This contest serves as a platform for students to express their thoughts, propose innovative ideas, and influence the discourse on school safety.

The Contest: Encouraging Creativity and Originality

Active Defender encourages participants to unleash their creativity and originality when addressing the contest topic. The organization recognizes that diverse perspectives and out-of-the-box thinking are essential in crafting effective solutions. The contest aims to inspire students to think beyond conventional boundaries by fostering an environment that values uniqueness.

Student-Centric Guidelines and Criteria

The contest guidelines and judging criteria are designed with students in mind. With an open call for entries from grades 3 to 12, Active Defender ensures inclusivity and welcomes contributions from various age groups. The emphasis on clarity, coherence, and practicality in judging criteria reflects the organization’s commitment to providing a fair and accessible platform for all participants.

Recognition and Celebration of Student Achievements

Active Defender recognizes the essay contest winners not just as recipients of prizes but as voices that deserve to be heard. The announcement of winners on April 15, 2024, on the organization’s website and social media platforms underscores the commitment to celebrating and amplifying the achievements of students who contribute valuable insights to the discourse on school safety.

Active Defender Paves the Way for Student Impact

In sponsoring this essay contest, Active Defender showcases its dedication to fostering a culture where student voices are heard and celebrated. By actively empowering young minds to contribute to the conversation on school safety, Active Defender sets a precedent for students’ impact in shaping a secure future for schools. This contest is not just about winning prizes; it’s about recognizing and amplifying the transformative power within every student’s voice.

CONTEST GUIDELINES AND CRITERIA

 The Active Defender Essay Contest presents a unique opportunity for students to voice their opinions on the crucial topic of making schools safer. The information below will guide you through this contest’s essential criteria and guidelines that encourage creativity, originality, and practical solutions.

1. Contest Theme: Making Our Schools Safer

• Highlight the importance of addressing the safety of schools.
• Participants should explore diverse aspects related to how to make schools safer.

2. Prizes and Recognition:

• Three winners will be selected, each receiving $250.
• Winners will be recognized in three categories: Grades 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12.

3. Submission Deadline – March 30, 2024:

• Please adhere to the submission deadline.
• Submit early if possible to avoid the last-minute rush.

4. How to Enter:

• All contest entries should be submitted via email to l.churchbourne@active-defender.com.
• Please include the student’s name, grade, teacher’s name, school name, and contact information in the email.

5. Guidelines:

• Open to students in grades 3-12.
• Essays should not exceed 1000 words.
• Emphasize creativity and originality in presenting ideas.

6. Judging Criteria:

• Creativity and Originality: Looking for fresh, innovative perspectives.
• Clarity and Coherence: Present ideas logically and coherently.
• Practicality of Ideas: Propose solutions that can be realistically implemented.

7. Winners Announcement – April 15, 2024:

• Winners will be announced on Active Defender’s website and social media platforms.

8. Contact Information:

• For questions or inquiries, please email l.churchbourne@active-defender.com.

The Active Defender Essay Contest provides a valuable platform for students to contribute ideas toward making schools safer. Your voice matters; this contest invites you to share your creativity, originality, and practical solutions. Empower yourself, empower your school, and let your ideas pave the way for a safer learning environment. Good luck to all participants!

December 18, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Active Defender Selected to Receive Air Force SBIR Phase I Grant Funding for Research and Development

Carthage, NC – Active Defender announces it has been selected by AFWERX for a SBIR Phase 1 contract in the amount of $74,836 focused on continued development of the company’s emergency alerting/communication application to address the most pressing challenges in the Department of the Air Force (DAF). The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and eliminating bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018 which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded and now, as of December 15, 2023, Active Defender will start its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America.

Quote From Company
“We are extremely appreciative for the opportunity to work with the U.S. Air Force to further develop the capabilities of our Active Defender application through the SBIR grant. School safety and security is our passion and we are excited to explore providing our technology to Department of Defense schools as well as its potential utilization outside of educational institutions.” Jim Boyte, Founder/CEO

(Mandatory Disclaimer) “The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.”

About Active Defender
Active Defender is a company focused on improving safety and security in educational institutions across the country through the utilization of innovation technology. The company’s cutting-edge, mobile, emergency alerting/communications application provides unparalleled situational awareness and communication capabilities that provide accurate information and reduce response times in a crisis. Leveraging state-of-the-art technologies, including live, dynamic, GIS/GPS campus mapping, the application is revolutionizing how educational institutions respond to crises by 1) providing real-time situational awareness; 2) serving as a communication hub; 3) integrating with emergency services/first responders; and 4) providing status updates and accountability for students and staff. Although currently focused on the educational sector, Active Defender has plans to expand its reach into supporting safety and security in other verticals as well.

About AFRL
The Air Force Research Laboratory is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 12,500 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit afresearchlab.com.

About AFWERX
As the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 325 military, civilian and contractor personnel at six hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has executed 4,697 contracts worth more than $2.6 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit: afwerx.com.

Company Press Contact:
Seth Powers, Ed.D.
Active Defender, Chief Operations Officer
seth.powers@active-defender.com
910-948-2667

As we step into the new year, the Active Defender team is thrilled to share a glimpse of what innovations are in store for our comprehensive safety solution in 2024. We’ve been hard at work, listening to feedback and identifying ways to enhance the Active Defender experience in schools.

Reunification Support following a Campus Crisis
In the face of unexpected crises, ensuring the safety and swift reunification of students with their parents is of utmost importance. We are excited to announce that we are working toward the development of a Reunification Support add-on, a robust tool designed to streamline management, accountability, and reporting processes during student reunification. This feature will empower schools to respond efficiently and effectively, providing peace of mind to both educators and parents in times of need.

Car-Rider Pick-Up Add-On: Enhancing Efficiency and Accountability
Active Defender is committed to making every aspect of school safety more seamless, and that includes daily routines like student pick-up. Our upcoming Car-Rider Pick-Up add-on is tailored to improve efficiency and accountability during the crucial time when students are picked up by car after school. This enhancement aims to reduce wait times, enhance communication between parents and school staff, and ensure a smooth and secure pick-up process.

 Visitor Management System: Strengthening Campus Security
In an effort to fortify campus security, Active Defender will be working to develop a Visitor Management System add-on. This comprehensive tool will enable schools to document, conduct background checks, and verify all visitors entering the campus through the main school office. By implementing this feature, schools can enhance their ability to monitor and control access, creating a safer environment for students, staff, and visitors alike.

We understand the importance of constant innovation and improvement in the realm of school safety, and these additions to Active Defender reflect our dedication to staying at the forefront of the field. Stay tuned for more updates as we work diligently to bring these features to life. The Active Defender team is grateful for your continued support, and we look forward to another year of advancing safety in educational institutions.

Here’s to a safe and secure 2024!

We come to you with an exciting opportunity to amplify the impact of Active Defender and contribute to the safety of schools in your local community.

As proud investors in Active Defender, you’re already aware of the groundbreaking strides we’re making in the realm of emergency alerting and communication applications. Our commitment to enhancing safety measures has positioned Active Defender as an emerging market leader, offering unparalleled situational awareness and capabilities that redefine the standards of security in education and, eventually, other sectors.

A Call to Action: Empower Your Local Schools

Now, we invite you to be a catalyst for positive change by reaching out to schools in your area. Let them know about Active Defender’s revolutionary platform and the incredible opportunity we’re extending exclusively for the remainder of the 2023-2024 school year.

Special Promotion for Schools: Try Active Defender with No Obligation

Active Defender is offering schools the chance to experience the future of emergency communication with no license/seat fees for the remainder of the 2023-2024 school year. This means schools can fully embrace the power of Active Defender with minimal financial commitment.

Only One Low, One-Time Fee for Setup, Mapping, and Training

To make this opportunity accessible, the only cost to the school would be a discounted, one-time set-up, mapping, and training fee of $1,000 per campus. This nominal fee covers the required mapping of their campus, the training of staff, and ensures that schools receive personalized support, tailored to their unique needs, enabling a seamless integration of Active Defender into safety protocols.

How You Can Help: Spread the Word

Your role in this initiative is crucial. By reaching out to local schools and sharing this incredible opportunity, you’re not just advocating for Active Defender; you’re actively contributing to the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and staff in your community.

Get Started Today: Tips for Outreach

Introduce Yourself: Share your passion for Active Defender and your belief in its potential to transform school safety.

Highlight the Special Promotion: Emphasize the no-cost trial for the 2023-2024 school year and the minimal setup fee.

Offer Support: Assure schools that you’re available to answer questions, provide insights, and facilitate the connection with Active Defender.

Together, let’s make a difference in the safety landscape of our communities. Your efforts can spark a positive change, and we’re confident that, with your support, more schools will embrace the proactive approach to emergency communication that Active Defender provides.

Thank you for being a driving force behind Active Defender’s mission.

Active Defender’s regulated crowdfunding (RCF) investment campaign officially closed on October 31. Thanks to the incredible support of our investor community, we raised an impressive $576,000 to fuel Active Defender’s mission of revolutionizing school safety.

First and foremost, a heartfelt thank you to each and every investor who contributed to our campaign. Your belief in our vision and commitment to safer educational institutions is truly inspiring. Together, we’re not just raising funds; we’re building a strong and dedicated community that believes in the power of innovation and proactive security solutions.

Understanding the Mechanism: Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

For those wondering about the financial mechanics behind the campaign, we utilized a financial instrument called a Simple Agreement for Future Equity, or SAFE. A SAFE is a popular investment vehicle in crowdfunding campaigns, providing a streamlined and investor-friendly approach.

In essence, when you invest through a SAFE, you’re not immediately purchasing equity in the company. Instead, you’re making a cash investment with the promise of receiving equity at a later, predetermined triggering event. This allows us to focus on our mission without the immediate complexities of equity management.

Making Investments Tangible: Triggering Events

Now, let’s dive into what makes your investments tangible. Triggering events are the key milestones that, when achieved, convert your SAFE investment into actual equity. These events can include a variety of milestones, such as a subsequent funding round, an acquisition, or Initial Public Offering (IPO).

In the context of Active Defender, your investment becomes tangible and transforms into equity when specific milestones align with our growth and success. It’s a win-win situation, as your support not only fuels our journey but also ensures that you become a valued equity holder in a thriving technology venture.

As we celebrate this successful campaign, we want to reiterate our gratitude. Active Defender is not just a company; it’s a collective effort to safeguard the education landscape. Your investment goes beyond mere financial support; it’s a vote of confidence in our ability to make a lasting impact.

Thank you for being a vital part of the Active Defender community. Together, we’re building a safer, more resilient world.

We are thrilled to share that Active Defender has been awarded an Air Force Open Topic Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I grant totaling $74,836 for research and development (press release). This grant marks a significant milestone for our team and opens up new possibilities for advancing our emergency alerting and communication application.

The Phase I period is set to run from December 15 to March 15, during which Active Defender will be actively engaging with and visiting Air Force bases. Our goal is to establish a collaborative partnership with a base that will serve as a strategic environment for the further development of our cutting-edge emergency alerting and communication application.

At Active Defender, we understand the critical importance of effective communication and rapid response in emergency situations. This grant provides us with an opportunity to enhance our existing technology and tailor it to meet the unique needs of the Air Force. We are committed to leveraging our expertise to contribute to the safety and security of our military personnel.

During the Phase I period, our team will be dedicated to building strong relationships with Air Force bases and identifying the most suitable partner for the next stage of development. Securing a base for further collaboration is a crucial step towards obtaining Phase II funding, which will allow us to take our emergency alerting/communication application to the next level.

We are grateful for the support of the Air Force and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. This grant not only validates the importance of our work but also fuels our passion for creating technology that makes a positive impact on the lives of those who serve our country.

We will keep you updated and look forward to sharing more good news in the near future. Thank you for being a valued part of the Active Defender community, and we appreciate your continued support.

Active Defender has been honored by the NC TECH Association, receiving two prestigious accolades: inclusion in the 2023 Top 10 Start-ups to Watch list and recognition as a finalist for the 2023 Tech for Good Award.

The NC TECH Association, a leading organization in promoting and advancing the state’s tech industry, has acknowledged Active Defender for its exceptional contribution to the tech landscape. As a Top 10 Start-up to Watch, Active Defender stands out for its groundbreaking approach to enhancing safety and communication on school campuses.

Active Defender’s unique value proposition lies in its status as the sole Emergency Alerting/Communication app that empowers school staff with comprehensive information during a crisis. The app ensures that school personnel are equipped with vital details, including:

1. Nature of the Threat: Active Defender provides instant updates on the type of threat faced by the school, ensuring staff are well-informed and can take appropriate action.

2. Threat Location: The app pinpoints the exact location of the threat, enabling a swift and targeted response from school staff and emergency responders.

3. Visual Status Reporting: The app enables school staff to visually report their status on a designated map of the school campus, facilitating real-time communication and collaboration.

As a Tech for Good Award Finalist, Active Defender is honored for the company’s outstanding work in the use of technology to make the world a better place. The capabilities provided by the application are making schools across the country safer for students and staff by providing unparalleled situational awareness, helping to eliminate uncertainty and fostering a sense of security and peace of mind.

Finalist and award winners were recognized at the Raleigh Convention Center on November 1st, 2023 as a part of the NC TECH Awards, the Association’s largest event of the year with over 700 people in attendance. The event brings together leaders from technology, business, education, and government to celebrate growth, innovation, and leadership in the state’s vibrant tech sector. It’s an evening of networking and celebration to recognize tech companies, the use of tech, and leaders for their achievements. This event is the only statewide tech awards gala, and included a reception, dinner and awards ceremony.