Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Sandy Hook Promise Foundation’s Know the Signs Programs in the Los Angeles Unified School District

Abstract

The two year study will evaluate programs designed to reduce gun violence in schools by teaching youth to recognize and report potential violence and mental health threats and by increasing social inclusion at school.

Purpose: To provide an evaluation of school-based interventions that aim to promote safety via early detection of signs of potential violent or self-harm behavior, build inclusivity and respect among students and staff, and encourage a culture of safety.

Approach

• Conduct a non-equivalent control group study involving 19 middle schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District.
• Collect data from multiple sources (including pre- and post-surveys with students; school records; and semi-structured interviews with key personnel) to assess school-related firearm and violent behavior and its antecedents.
• Assess risk reporting, incidents, school-community response and school climate.

Significance: School-based interventions that promote early detection and encourage a culture of safety hold promise for reducing the burden of firearms violence among youth but have not been evaluated. Developing preliminary evidence of their effects will be important for schools considering how best to allocate resources to ensure student and staff safety.

Note: This project has changed from the original scope as a result of COVID-19-related disruptions to schools.