Parent demands accountability from school board over bullying and lack of apologies

The St. Helens School District Board meeting on December 11, 2024, was marked by a passionate public comment from a parent addressing ongoing bullying issues within the district. The mother expressed her frustration over the lack of action taken by school officials regarding her child's repeated bullying experiences. She highlighted her efforts to advocate for her son, including providing video evidence of his injuries, yet felt unheard and unsupported by the school administration.

During her remarks, she called for accountability from the board members, demanding apologies for the failures in addressing bullying and ensuring student safety. She emphasized the importance of setting an example for children by owning up to mistakes and taking responsibility for the well-being of students. The mother criticized the school for not documenting incidents properly and for failing to protect her child, which ultimately led to her son feeling compelled to defend himself physically.

The parent also pointed out the broader implications of bullying, including mental health issues and the need for the school to take proactive measures to support affected students. She urged the board to recognize their role in fostering a safe environment and to implement necessary changes to prevent future incidents.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for the St. Helens School District to address bullying more effectively and to engage with parents and students in a meaningful way. The mother’s heartfelt plea serves as a reminder of the critical responsibility schools have in safeguarding their students and the importance of accountability in educational leadership.