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Written By Deanna Lester

If your child has experienced sexual abuse, peer sexual misconduct, harassment, or a school safety concern, you may feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or unsure where to begin. You are not alone.

This page was created to help rural families take informed, trauma-sensitive first steps while connecting to appropriate support, reporting options, and educational resources.

Immediate Safety Comes First

If your child is in immediate danger, call 911 or seek emergency assistance right away.

If the incident occurred recently and medical care may be needed, consider seeking evaluation through a medical provider or pediatric forensic/SANE program. Medical support can address both physical and emotional well-being.

Support Your Child First

Children respond to trauma in many different ways. Some may appear emotional, withdrawn, angry, numb, anxious, or even “completely normal.” All of these responses can occur after traumatic experiences.

Helpful reminders:

  • Stay calm and supportive

  • Listen without pressuring for details

  • Reassure your child that they are not to blame

  • Avoid repeatedly questioning or interviewing them

  • Focus on helping your child feel safe and supported

Early support and connection to trauma-informed resources can make a significant difference in healing.

Document Important Information

Consider keeping:

  • dates and timelines

  • screenshots and messages

  • names of individuals involved

  • copies of school communication

  • notes from meetings or phone calls

  • incident reports or disciplinary notices

Organized documentation can help families navigate school processes, advocacy efforts, and support planning more effectively.

Understand Your Reporting Options

Depending on the situation, families may choose to contact:

  • local law enforcement

  • Child Protective Services

  • school administration

  • a Title IX Coordinator

  • advocacy organizations

  • medical or mental health professionals

Every situation is unique. Families deserve access to clear information and trauma-informed support while determining next steps.

School Concerns & Title IX

Schools have responsibilities related to student safety, supportive measures, and responding to reports of sexual harassment or misconduct.

Supportive measures may include:

  • schedule changes

  • counseling support

  • class modifications

  • safety planning

  • transportation adjustments

  • academic accommodations

You can find school contacts and Title IX information in our resource section.

Rural Families Face Unique Barriers

Rural communities often experience:

  • limited access to specialized services

  • transportation challenges

  • long wait times

  • concerns about privacy

  • fewer local support options

These barriers are real, and families should not have to navigate them alone.

Our mission is to help connect rural families with trauma-informed education, resources, advocacy support, and prevention-focused information that promotes safer communities for children.

You Do Not Have To Navigate This Alone

Whether you are looking for guidance, educational resources, advocacy support, or community connections, we are here to help connect families with appropriate trauma-informed resources and information.

Deanna Lester
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