When Lake County middle school students come back to class next month, they’ll receive a gift with a special message.
Eustis-based Kevco Builders underwrote the cost of providing 10,000 lanyards for Lake’s middle school students.
The lanyards, which students are required to wear around their neck to display their student ID, are printed with SpeakOut Hotline information students can use to anonymously report safety issues such as threats of violence and suicide concerns. The SpeakOut Hotline can be accessed via text or phone call at 1-800-423-TIPS or through the website at www.speakouthotline.org
Each middle school will receive lanyards coordinated to match the school colors, which will help emphasize school spirit while raising awareness about the SpeakOut program. The district buys lanyards for students each year, but this year it won’t have to bear that expense thanks to Kevco’s donation.
“Our message to students is if you see something, say something,” Lake County Schools Superintendent Diane Kornegay said. “SpeakOut is an anonymous tip line that will give students a safe place where they can report any concerns they may have. We know it’s going to help students, it’s going to save lives, and we are very grateful for the sponsorship with Kevco Builders and our partnership with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.”
“We hope that by providing students with easy access to a resource where they can anonymously report violence or concerning activity that more students will notify authorities and ultimately prevent tragedy,” said Joe Ziler, Kevco Builders President.
This initiative is an extension of Kevco Builders’ efforts to draw community attention to the SpeakOut Hotline. Last month, Lake County Schools and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office unveiled eight vehicles that are adorned with vibrant graphics that raise awareness for the SpeakOut Hotline. The vehicle graphic wraps were paid for by Kevco Builders.
Leesburg-based Red Apples Media coordinated the customization of the lanyards for the Lake County middle schools.
