September brings excitement – new backpacks, fresh school supplies, and the promise of a great year ahead. But while families focus on homework schedules and after-school activities, human traffickers see something else: opportunity.
The back-to-school transition creates exactly the conditions predators exploit. Kids adjusting to new schedules, feeling overwhelmed by changes, or struggling to fit in become prime targets for traffickers who know exactly how to spot and manipulate vulnerability.
The Numbers Are Staggering
Texas faces a human trafficking crisis that most parents don’t realize. The state ranks second nationally in reported trafficking cases, and the statistics for youth are heartbreaking:
- At least 79,000 youth in Texas have been victims of sex trafficking according to University of Texas research
- 55% of sex trafficking victims aged 7-11 are recruited through social media apps and websites
- 25% of youth in foster care are at risk of trafficking, with some studies showing up to 60% of trafficking victims have been in foster care
- Child sex trafficking costs Texas $6.6 billion annually in survivor care and criminal justice costs
Nationwide, an estimated 27 million people are exploited through trafficking, with children making up one in five victims.
Why September Is Dangerous
“Unfortunately, these are the conditions that human traffickers often try to exploit,” warns the Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Campaign. The start of school creates multiple risk scenarios:
The walk home from school – New routes, different timing, periods when kids are alone Bus stop waits – Predictable locations where children gather unsupervised After-school activities – Transitions between school and activities create gaps Online time – Increased internet use as kids adjust to new routines Social pressure – Desire to fit in makes kids more susceptible to manipulation
Even scarier: Law enforcement has confirmed trafficking cases occurring on school grounds, at school events, and carried out by classmates.
The Reality Parents Must Face
Governor Greg Abbott proclaimed January 2025 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month, stating “Human trafficking impacts approximately 25 million people each year” and calling it “one of the greatest threats” to American rights.
The traffickers aren’t strangers in dark alleys. They’re often people victims know, love and trust – neighbors, religious leaders, even family members. They use social media, dating apps, and gaming platforms to build relationships with children.
“Traffickers are brutal, and victims are often subjected to serious, life-altering manipulation, and control through the use of threats of violence, physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, and withholding of basic necessities,” according to the Texas Education Agency.
Warning Signs Every Adult Must Know
Texas requires all education professionals to report suspected trafficking within 24 hours. But parents, coaches, and community members need to watch for these indicators:
Behavioral changes:
- Unexplained absences from school
- Sleep deprivation or appearing malnourished
- Inappropriate clothing for weather
- New possessions they can’t explain
- Sudden behavior changes or withdrawal
Digital red flags:
- Excessive secrecy about online activities
- New “friends” only known online
- Receiving gifts from unknown sources
- Multiple phone numbers or social media accounts
Physical signs:
- Signs of physical abuse
- Appears fearful or submissive
- Shows signs of drug or alcohol use
What You Must Do Now
Start conversations today. Don’t wait for the “right moment” – make trafficking prevention part of regular family discussions. The Blue Campaign provides guides specifically for talking to youth about these dangers.
Monitor online activity without being invasive. Know what apps your kids use, who they’re talking to, and what games they play. Remember: 55% of young trafficking victims are recruited online.
Create safe reporting channels. Kids need to know they can tell you anything without getting in trouble. Many trafficking victims don’t seek help due to fear.
Know the numbers:
- National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
- Text “HELP” to 233733
- In Texas: iWatchTexas reporting system
- Emergency: 911
Texas Takes Action
The state has launched multiple initiatives:
- Governor’s Response Against Child Exploitation (GRACE)
- HHSC Human Trafficking Resource Center providing training for healthcare providers
- “Stop Human Trafficking” specialty license plates funding survivor services
- Required training for educators on recognizing trafficking signs
Texas Health and Human Services Commissioner Joy Borjes warns: “Human trafficking offenders hide in plain sight. You can find them in almost any industry, both online and in our neighborhoods, but the crime can be difficult to identify.”
Your September Action Plan
This week:
- Have age-appropriate conversations about online safety
- Review your child’s social media connections and gaming contacts
- Establish clear after-school check-in protocols
- Share the trafficking hotline number with your teens
Ongoing:
- Stay alert to behavioral changes as kids adjust to school
- Maintain open communication about school experiences
- Monitor for signs of manipulation or coercion
- Trust your instincts if something feels wrong
The Community Response
“Ending human trafficking is our collective responsibility,” Governor Abbott emphasized. Schools across Texas now post required signage about trafficking, and educators receive mandatory training.
Eight school districts nationwide, including Oakland Unified, received $4.3 million in federal grants to create trafficking prevention programs. These districts are pioneering approaches that could expand to Texas schools.
Hope Through Action
Texas CASA received a $48,000 grant to strengthen anti-trafficking efforts, while the Department of Family and Protective Services coordinates statewide prevention initiatives.
“With consistent supportive intervention, victims of child sex trafficking can begin to heal,” according to Texas CASA research.
The most powerful protection comes from informed adults who stay alert. When parents, teachers, coaches, and community members know what to watch for, traffickers lose their advantage.
Bottom Line
This school year, don’t just buy supplies and attend orientations. Arm yourself with knowledge that could save a child’s life. The traffickers are counting on adult ignorance and children’s vulnerability.
Make sure they’re disappointed on both counts.
Resources:
- Blue Campaign Back-to-School Resources: dhs.gov/blue-campaign
- Texas Anti-Trafficking Resources: texasattorneygeneral.gov/human-trafficking-section
- National Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733
- Report suspicious activity: iWatchTexas.com
Because protecting our children isn’t just a back-to-school priority – it’s a year-round responsibility.
