School Bullying 3/5/08 Update I

[Emjay]

First, from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank each and everyone of you that have offered your support while dealing with this. (School Bullies Journal)

Our appeal has been submitted to the district administrative staff and board.

However, it did not keep DD's school secretary from phoning and informing us that even though they are aware we are appealing the disciplinary action that the school still has rules that must be adhered to and due to her failure to attend the school's OSS work program, DD's suspension has been doubled effective today.

Now instead of the initial 5 days she has been sentenced to 10 days of suspension for being a VICTIM!

DD's injuries are healing quickly. The bruising and swelling around her eye is nearly non-existent. She's still complaining of occasional blurred vision so we will be making an appointment to see the optometrist. Hopefully they can see her soon without much wait.

She still hasn't had much of an appetite and has become a bit withdrawn. Really who can blame her after what she's experienced? We're keeping a close eye and working hard at keeping the communication open with her.

Hopefully we'll get word very soon from the Superintendent. The waiting is stressing me.

 

**Update**2:35 CST
Assistant Principal phoned to do a follow up regarding the secretary's call. She reinterated that it is school policy to double consequences when a student fails to show up to the OSS work program and that's all she can state.

I asked why I was not informed that this policy would go into effect during any of the previous communications with her nor with any of the other administrators.  Her response was DD was given a sheet explaining what the OSS work program was and her expectations for attendance therefore it was DD's responsibility to ensure I received it.

I was reassured when things first happened that I would be informed when the school's police officer came for his investigation. I'm angry to learn during my conversation with the assistant principal that the officer came yesterday afternoon (over 24 hours after the assault!) and no one contacted me nor has the school's officer interviewed my DD. How can he do an investigation if he doesn't interview the victim? Now I'm concerned that the school will not press charges against the assailants and we'll be left to pursue this as a civil matter.

Here I am continuing to sit by the phone awaiting word from the superintendent. 

[luvu410]

Mar. 5, 2008 at 3:12 PM Wow!  I can't believe they're suspending her for 10 days!!!  That's outrageous!!  Only because she didn't tell on them in the first place.  That's really harsh!!  Please keep us updated.  I would like to know what happens to the girls that did this.

[mom2sierrarose]

Mar. 5, 2008 at 4:22 PM Angi I have no idea whats going on but Im sorry!!! It all sounds so messed up. If you need to talk im here!

[MichelleK41]

Mar. 5, 2008 at 4:26 PM Emjay they are definitely being a$$e$ and I would ask them why in the heck the copy of the JCF, (well that one guideline), has to be picked up from the principals office instead of being in the parent handbook. Also the link I sent you, definitely let them know what's going on and do that bug in the ear as well. Its time they faced the music for supporting bullying in their schools. The school officer indeed was suppose to speak to your DD. How in the world do they think your DD can attend OSS without being able to hardly see. :(    Maybe some media would be good as well. Ok I know I am PO'd. If I could I would fly there!!!  Wubbies you guys!!!

[alabamahapywife]

Mar. 5, 2008 at 4:52 PM

WTF?!  I am flabbergasted by the school's incompetence...

I agree with Michelle.  Can you somehow get the media involved?  2 of our local network stations have investigative reports & they will broadcast stuff like this.  It would serve the school system right!

Big goddess love to you & DD. 

[tuffnthesaddle]

Mar. 5, 2008 at 5:24 PM OK I clearly missed something. 10 days!!!! WTH???

[Jillysmom]

Mar. 5, 2008 at 5:58 PM I agree with Alabama on this, maybe it is time to have someoe else step in, this is nosense. All this bull because your DD didnt want to report it. What about the other kids, I'm sorry I think you have a right to know.

[mshaiku]

Mar. 5, 2008 at 6:07 PM This is shameful that your daughter is punished by bullies and then again by the school system that should have been there to protect her. I'm so sorry. Stay strong my friend.

[angel28]

Mar. 5, 2008 at 7:00 PM i can't believe that their doing this to ur dd. I'm sorry that the school system is not doing their job by protecting their students. I know in our school on of the rules is no bullying and the do not tolerate at all. wish ur school had that. I hope thing go in ur favor. I'll be thinking of u and ur dd.  Ur doing the right think don't forget that. And stand ur ground girl. i'm hear if u need someone. love ya!

[RealSugarBaby]

Mar. 5, 2008 at 7:54 PM

ok if you feel that the school won't press charges go to the police station and file one. you can press charges on the girls on behalf of your daughter.  from my personal experience the school's police officers ALWAYS put the school as the victim. if you need to talk i'm here for ya i've had experience with this the type of issue with my old schools. i'm here if ya need me.

i'll be more than happy to help you some sense into the principal and the school board.

i wish you all the best of luck.

[RealSugarBaby]

Mar. 5, 2008 at 7:57 PM btw i help my letter to you was some help to you.