Leander ISD staff updated the school board Aug. 15 about campus and district anti-bullying initiatives.

In January, the district started the "Talk About It" campaign, which gives middle- and high-school students an opportunity to anonymously contact school staff about issues such as bullying, suicidal thoughts, stress and other issues.

Veronica Sopher, executive director of school and community relations, said 13,290 of the approximate 17,500 secondary students registered with Talk About It last school year. This fall the program will be introduced to fourth and fifth graders, she said.

"The majority of topics coming in are students reporting family problems, self injury, stress and depression. There are a few others, such as cyber bullying and eating disorders," she said.

The district's anti-bullying action campaign, which was implemented in September 2011, outlines how health curriculum, counseling, training, discipline, policies and compliance all play a role in preventing bullying. Compared to the 2011–12 school year, staff used a suicide assessment checklist on 47 percent more students in 2012–13, said Adriann Ivey, director of guidance and counseling. Some of those students made first contact through Talk About It, while others came forward with encouragement from friends, she said.

"In 2011–12 it was used 78 times throughout the district. ...Then in 2012–13, we used it 115 times. I believe it points to the fact that kids know that we will take these concerns seriously," Ivey said. "Not only has [Talk About It] been an extension for counselors to access kids and kids to access us, but it's also empowering kids. Anytime we can empower them to advocate for themselves and solve problems, it's a good thing."