P-49 Factors Associated with U.S. Virgin Islands' Students Perception of School Safety

Design and Methods: This study represents a secondary analysis of existing datasets. The primary study was conducted utilizing the 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Survey developed by the CDC and adapted for use in the USVI – 10 jurisdiction added questions were included). The methodology used in the primary study is described in detail elsewhere (Valmond, J.M., et al., 2021).

Results: Bullying in school: 35.9% of middle school students reported being bullied on school property. There was a statistically significant association between being bullied in school and feeling safe at school (Chi-square (1, n = 1195) = 25.96; p < .001). Cyberbullying: 12.4% of middle school students reported experiencing cyberbullying. There was a statistically significant association between cyberbullying and feeling safe at school (Chi-square (1, n = 1201) = 19.43; p < .001). Bullied on school property: 15.7% of senior high school students reported being bullied on school property. There was a statistically significant association between being bullied in school and feeling safe at school (Chi-square (1, n = 1639) = 59.30; p < .001). Cyberbullying: 9.8% of senior high school students reported experiencing cyberbullying. There was a statistically significant association between cyberbullying and feeling safe at school (Chi-square (1, n = 1638) = 47.04; p < .001).

Conclusion: Results have implications for educators, public health providers, and policymakers, particularly with respect to exploring interventions to reduce bullying and gang activity in schools, improve the school environment, and increase student safety.