Mitigating the Risk of Student Sexual Abuse Amidst a Pandemic

As the coronavirus began to advance across the country early in the year, almost every state and US territory ordered or recommended schools close to all in-person classes to mitigate the spread of the virus.¹ Educators quickly turned to technology as the new vehicle to deliver classes, but this urgency created safety and security exposures with little time and few resources to assess and mitigate the potential risks.

While the coronavirus demanded a quick response and continues to demand attention as the new school year begins, it’s crucial to proactively review the risks distance learning created. An effective risk assessment and mitigation process for student sexual abuse and molestation through distance learning should look at both external and internal risks.

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Jaime's Story of Childhood Sexual Abuse

This episode of Survivors With a Purpose (SWAP) features Jamie Romo's inspiring story of overcoming clergy sexual abuse, his journey to spiritual wholeness, and the results of his journey in his book Healing the Sexually Abused Heart.

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How do you help your students tell when they don't have the words?

Use the analogy of a stoplight as a conversation starter. This comparison gives your students a means to tell you if someone makes them feel safe, uneasy, or scared without even having to use words. Then you can continue the conversation and limit access appropriately.

Using the concept of a stoplight is a great way for you to start a conversation with your students about how they feel when they are with people and empower them to use those feelings to make choices. It's a positive and light hearted way to give your students permission to tell you or another trusted adult about potential danger when they may not have the words to explain.

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Prevalence of Childhood Sexual Abuse

The prevalence of child sexual abuse has been the focus of researchers for decades. The numbers have been fairly consistent over time, considering the differences in methodologies used and the specific definition of sexual abuse. Studies in the United States report:

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