Student Crime Stoppers in Hamilton
Crime Stoppers of Hamilton, Inc. has been actively involved in youth crime prevention programs since 1997.
In 1998, the Hamilton civilian Crime Stoppers Board initiated the first Hamilton Student Crime Stoppers program in three local pilot high schools. The Student Crime Stoppers Program had delegates from the three participating high schools representing the then, three Boards of Education.
The success of the program resulted in three more schools being added in 1999.
The success of these initial programs led to the recommendation to the civilian board of a "Regional" Student Crime Stoppers Program that would include all the secondary schools served by the Hamilton-Wentworth Public District School Board, the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board and the private/independent schools in the area.
In 2000-2001, a Student Crime Stoppers Board was formed with representatives from 86% of local high schools. Subsequently, a Steering Committee was struck to assist with the organization of Student Board meetings and with planning an Annual Training Symposium.
Training Symposium
Hamilton has sponsored 3 Provincial Training Symposiums with two purposes in mind: (1) to teach students from across Ontario how to set up school programs, and (2) to focus on issues of importance to young people.
| 1999 | "Making Ontario Schools Safer", featuring Cst. Dennis Reimer from Taber, Alberta and Dr. Fred Matthews, Toronto, Ontario. |
| 2000 | "Help make your school safer in the new millennium", featuring Sammy Havilind, a survivor of Columbine |
| 2001 | "Breaking the code of Silence", featuring the dramatic productions of "BULLYPROOF" and "The Roadshow Rap". |
Topics explored included starting and/or enhancing your School Crime Stoppers Program, youth street gangs, substance abuse, anti-bullying and anti-violence programs, developing healthy relationships, domestic abuse, conflict resolution, date rape, protection on the internet, racism, youth stress and suicide, and peer mediation.
We are thankful for the support of the Solicitor-General of Ontario and local sponsors in assisting with funding for these training events.
Tips for Student Security
1. Avoid bringing large amounts of money to school.
2. Avoid bringing expensive accessories to school - outerwear, jewelry, etc.
3. Students should not reveal their lock combination to anyone.
4. Students lockers should be closed and locked at all times unless they are present.
5. During physical education classes and athletic events ensure that all personal belongings are locked in a gym locker or a basket.
6. Bicycles brought to school should be properly secured in the bicycle parking area.
7. Portable audio equipment should not be left visible in your parked car while at school.
8. During school events do not leave valuables on the bleachers or seats if you leave for a while.
9. Whenever possible mark all personal belongings.
10. Report all acts of theft, vandalism, violence, and alcohol or drug abuse in and around your school to administration.
Call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS
