Scenario
A student reports being physically threatened by another student. The teacher brushes it off, saying, “Just ignore it. I'm sure they didn't mean it.”
Dismissing safety concerns minimizes the student’s experience and puts them at continued risk. All threats or bullying reports must be taken seriously and documented.
Safety in the classroom is only the teacher’s responsibility.
False – Everyone in the school community, including counselors, plays a role in maintaining a safe learning environment
A counselor leaves the classroom for 10 minutes to make copies, leaving students with the Youth Worker.
Leaving students unattended increases the risk of accidents, fights, or emergencies going unmanaged. It’s a major safety and liability issue.
Counselors should know the emergency evacuation routes for each classroom they enter.
True – Knowing emergency procedures helps counselors assist students and staff during fire drills or real emergencies.
During a fire drill, an intern continues the lesson, saying, “It’s just a drill. Let’s not waste time.”
Failing to follow emergency protocols sets a dangerous precedent and endangers students during actual emergencies. Drills must be treated seriously.
True or False: It’s okay for counselors to leave students unattended for a few minutes if it's a quick task.
False – Students should never be left unsupervised. Counselors must always ensure proper coverage or supervision is in place.
A staff member yells aggressively at a student using threatening language like, “Do that again and see what happens!”
What’s wrong: Threatening language creates a hostile environment and can escalate conflict. It undermines emotional and psychological safety.
True or False: Counselors should immediately report any signs of bullying, abuse, or unsafe behavior.
True – Prompt reporting ensures student safety and compliance with school policies and laws.
During recess, students start climbing the soccer goalposts. The teacher sees it but says, “Let them get their energy out.”
What’s wrong: Allowing unsafe behavior without intervention can lead to serious injuries. Staff are responsible for enforcing rules that prevent harm.
Counselors can help improve classroom safety by teaching students conflict resolution and emotional regulation skills.
True – Social-emotional learning (SEL) strategies directly support safer and more respectful classrooms.