In 2025, Louisville-based software company Slingshot is celebrating its 20th anniversary in a big way: by donating time and expertise to build an AI-powered student support tool for Bullitt County Public Schools (BCPS). This pro bono initiative reflects both Slingshot’s community commitment and its belief that AI, when guided responsibly, can have a meaningful impact.
The project centers on a first-of-its-kind mobile app designed to help middle and high school students navigate bullying. Built in collaboration with students and counselors, the app offers step-by-step support, highlights BCPS resources, and, when needed, alerts trained staff in real-time. The goal is a safe, private space that empowers students to seek help on their own terms, while staying fully aligned with district policies and privacy expectations.
Why It Matters
Bullying often leaves students feeling isolated and unsure of where to turn. In early design sessions, BCPS students shared that they want judgment-free support, clear next steps, and safe ways to decide who to tell and how to protect themselves. Many also expressed hesitation about talking to overwhelmed adults, fearing they wouldn’t be believed or that sharing could make situations worse.
By meeting students in the digital space where much of their daily life happens, the app provides approachable, on-demand guidance while ensuring direct routes to real-life adult support when needed most. It’s a tool shaped by students, for students, that speaks in straightforward, supportive language and makes help easier to access.
How It Works
Once it launches, students will be able to download the app through the Apple App Store or Google Play, in line with district mobile phone policies, and access it on school-issued Chromebooks. In just a few taps, students can:
- Chat with an AI support assistant trained only on BCPS-approved resources
- Explore district-provided content in engaging formats like podcasts, articles, and interactive quizzes
- Request in-person support directly from counselors
Behind the scenes, counselors and staff have a secure, web-based system to manage alerts, review reports, and respond quickly when a situation triggers concern.
Safety & Guardrails
Student safety has been built into every layer of the app. Access is limited strictly to BCPS personnel and students, and all data stays within the district’s secure environment. When the system detects a potential risk, alerts go straight to counselors and staff in real time. Even outside the school day, escalations are automatically routed to on‑call personnel so there’s always a human ready to respond. If something comes up after hours, the chatbot can provide immediate crisis resources and guidance on reaching out to a trusted adult until a staff member follows up. To keep the experience focused and safe, the AI assistant is trained to stay within its purpose—providing supportive guidance and handing off to people when needed.
Built with Student Input
From the start, BCPS students and counselors have been central to the design process. Their feedback continues to shape everything from tone to features, ensuring the app reflects what feels safe and approachable for students while being practical for staff to manage.
The app is currently in active development, with students and staff providing feedback through summer and fall sessions. A launch is targeted for early 2026, with updates and refinements expected well beyond that timeline. Stay tuned for more announcements, sneak peeks, and stories from the students shaping this work.
“At Slingshot, our passion is fueled by tech that has real impact,” said David Galownia, CEO of Slingshot. “20 years in business is a huge milestone for any business, and the community here in Louisville deserves large credit for us being able to thrive here. By developing an app pro-bono we can give back to the community we love while simultaneously demonstrating the power of AI used to solve real problems that all of us will benefit from.”
Looking Ahead
As Slingshot marks 20 years, this project is a reminder that the best innovations don’t just advance technology, they strengthen communities. With BCPS students at the center, the app is set to empower the next generation with safer, smarter ways to seek support.
