Alden students and families now have a straightforward and secure way to report concerns or share vital information through the Alden Schools’ website. In a recent video, Erie County Sheriff’s Deputy Ashley Piel, Alden’s School Resource Officer (SRO), walked viewers through the simple process of using the district’s online tip line.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Visit the Alden Schools Website
   Head to AldenSchools.org. Once on the main page, scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll see a photo of Officer Piel and Kojak, her trusty partner. Just above the image, click the “Tip Line Click Here” button.
2. Access the Tip Form
   You’ll be redirected to a page with a tip form. This form is user-friendly and consists of ten questions designed to gather as much detail as possible about the situation.
3. Fill Out the Details
   Officer Piel emphasized the importance of including details such as names, locations, times, and descriptions. Even small details, like what someone was wearing or other witnesses involved, can help administrators and SROs address the situation effectively.
4. Optional Contact Information
   You can choose to provide your name and contact information if you’d like a follow-up from the school administration or Officer Piel. Parents or guardians may find this option particularly helpful if they want direct communication.
5. Certify Truthfulness
   The form includes a certification step, requiring you to confirm that the information submitted is accurate to the best of your knowledge. Officer Piel stressed that false reporting could lead to disciplinary or legal action, as with filing a false police report.
6. Submission Confirmation
   Once you hit submit, a confirmation screen will appear, indicating that your tip has been successfully sent. Both Officer Piel and school administrators will be notified promptly, although tips submitted during non-school hours may not receive an immediate response.

When to Use the Tip Line
The tip line is perfect for reporting concerns such as bullying, safety issues, or other non-emergency situations that require school attention. However, for urgent matters or active emergencies, always call 911.

Why Use the Tip Line?
This system is designed to maintain confidentiality while ensuring concerns are addressed. “It’s a tool for everyone—students, parents, or staff—to make sure the Alden community remains safe,” Officer Piel explained.

Need Help?
If you’re unsure about how to use the tip line, Officer Piel encourages you to reach out to your school principal or directly to her for assistance.

By working together, the Alden community can ensure a safe and supportive environment for everyone. As Officer Piel said, “It’s super simple. If you have any questions, just ask!”