Petition for Student Safety, Support, and Violence Prevention in Beaverton Schools
To: Beaverton School District School Board
From: Concerned Parents & Community Members
Date: Written 21 March 2025 Submitted: 
Subject: Ensuring Student Safety, Supporting Victims, and Preventing School Violence
We, the undersigned, urge the Beaverton School District to take immediate action to protect students from violence, support those impacted, and implement effective prevention measures to create a safer learning environment.
A Call for Action: Brynlie’s Story
Brynlie, a student at Findley Elementary, was targeted and physically attacked by a classmate and continues to encounter him despite a separation plan. Each time she reports feeling unsafe, she is asked what she wants staff to do rather than receiving proactive intervention. As a result, she has suffered from severe anxiety, missed multiple school days, and feels unsafe in her own classroom.
Her experience is not unique. Many students in Beaverton schools face bullying, harassment, and violence, yet the current response system fails to protect victims, provide necessary interventions for aggressors, or hold them accountable in ways that promote long-term behavioral change. Students should never be forced to share space with those who have harmed them. No child should have to miss school because they feel unsafe.
We Demand Immediate Changes:
1. Stronger Separation & Intervention Policies
o Ensure effective separation of students who have harmed others from their victims, based on the victims' needs.
o Appropriately train staff to proactively address safety concerns instead of shifting the burden onto victims.
2. Support for Victims of School Violence
o Fund counseling services and provide transportation support for students impacted by violence.
o Provide tutoring for students who are victims of school violence when anxiety prevents them from attending school, regardless of their enrollment or IEP/504 status.
3. Proper Training for Educators & Crisis Intervention Staff
o Require comprehensive training for all staff on trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and supporting victims of violence.
o Ensure clear response protocols for student distress, so no child is left without immediate support.
4. Proactive Support Systems for Students & Parents
o Establish a formalized process where students and parents can report safety concerns without fear of dismissal.
o Implement designated school support teams trained to advocate for students and provide immediate intervention when safety concerns arise.
5. Violence Prevention & Education Programs
o Partner with local organizations like the Domestic Violence Resource Center to bring prevention programs into schools.
o Implement early intervention programs to address harmful behaviors before they escalate.
6. Intervention & Support for Students Who Display Aggressive Behaviors
o Implement restorative justice programs and counseling for students who harm others to address the root causes of their aggression.
o Provide education on emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and healthy coping mechanisms so students can express their needs and feelings without harming others.
o Ensure early identification and intervention for students struggling with behavioral challenges to prevent escalation.
7. Enforcement of District & State Policies
o Enforce District Policy JFCF, which prohibits harassment, intimidation, and violence.
o Ensure compliance with Oregon law (ORS 339.356) requiring schools to prevent and respond to bullying.
Why This Matters
Students cannot learn if they feel unsafe. Schools must not only protect victims but also prevent violence before it happens. By implementing clear safety measures, accountability, and prevention programs, Beaverton School District can create a school environment where all students feel safe, supported, and able to thrive.
Call to Action
We request that the Beaverton School District respond to this petition and outline specific steps they will take to address these concerns.
We stand with Brynlie and all students who deserve a safe and supportive school environment. We urge the Beaverton School District to act now.