Southwest Preparatory School Leads the Fight Against Human Trafficking with Awareness and Prevention Efforts
At Southwest Preparatory School, student safety and well-being are top priorities. Recognizing the growing concern of human trafficking and its impact on students, the district has taken a proactive stance in raising awareness, educating students, and providing critical resources to combat this issue. Through powerful partnerships, engaging presentations, and accessible online resources, Southwest Prep is equipping students, parents, and staff with the knowledge and tools to prevent trafficking and protect the most vulnerable.
Why Human Trafficking Awareness Matters
Human trafficking is not just a distant issue—it is happening in communities across the country. According to research conducted in Florida, 1 in 3 middle schoolers and 1 in 9 high schoolers are currently being recruited for trafficking. In Texas, 5% of students have identified some form of trafficking. These statistics highlight the urgent need for education and early intervention.
“Our goal is to empower students with knowledge so they can recognize red flags, protect themselves, and look out for their peers,” said Christiana Gomez, Counselor at Southwest Prep's Northwest Campus.
The district has launched a comprehensive prevention program that includes annual student presentations, educator training, and a dedicated online resource page to ensure that students and families have access to lifesaving information at their fingertips.
Partnering with Experts: Dr. Katariina Rosenblatt and There is H.O.P.E. for Me
One of the district’s most impactful collaborations is with Dr. Katariina Rosenblatt, a renowned survivor,
“In January alone, we spoke to 400 students in San Antonio, intercepted online recruitment efforts, and identified up to 20 students in need of support,” Dr. Kat shared. As part of this effort, Southwest Prep is launching Friday night support meetings for students and parents, creating a safe space for those affected by trafficking.
Dr. Kat stresses the importance of awareness, explaining that one of the biggest misconceptions about trafficking is that it always involves physical force or abduction. In reality, traffickers often use manipulation, deception, and false promises—such as fake romantic relationships or job offers—to lure in victims.
Equipping Students with Knowledge and Tools
At Southwest Prep, 6th- 12th-grade students receive annual trafficking prevention presentations through Houston Crime Stoppers' Safe School Institute. These sessions help students recognize unsafe situations, understand online dangers, and build self-esteem to resist peer pressure and coercion.
The school also displays bilingual awareness posters across campuses to keep the issue at the forefront and remind students that help is available.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
It’s crucial for students, parents, and educators to recognize potential warning signs of trafficking, including:
- Sudden changes in behavior or attitude
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Frequent absences from school
- Inappropriate sexual behavior
- Displaying fear or anxiety around certain individuals
- Signs of control or manipulation by others
Teachers and staff play a critical role in prevention by identifying warning signs, creating a safe space for students, and taking action when needed. Parents are also encouraged to have open conversations with their children and utilize district-provided resources.
Expanding Efforts and Strengthening Community Partnerships
Southwest Prep is committed to growing its anti-trafficking efforts by continuing student education, collaborating with survivor-led organizations, and expanding resources for families. The district has created a dedicated Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention webpage to ensure students and parents have access to vital information, support networks, and emergency resources.
Visit our Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention page: www.swprep.org/preventhumantrafficking
This resource hub provides educational materials, hotline numbers, and guidance for students and families seeking help or looking to get involved.
How You Can Help
Students, parents, and community members can support anti-trafficking efforts by:
- Educating themselves through books, presentations, and online resources
- Advocating for trafficking awareness programs in schools
- Starting anti-trafficking clubs or hosting awareness events
- Volunteering with survivor-led organizations
- Donating to support prevention efforts and survivor resources
- Spreading awareness on social media
To learn more and support, visit There is H.O.P.E. for Me at:
Website: https://thereishopeforme.org
Email: [email protected]
Follow: Facebook | Instagram | X (Twitter)
If you suspect someone is being trafficked, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-3737-888 for immediate assistance.
Together, we can educate, protect, and empower our students to stand against human trafficking.