Community urges AUHSD board to act on bullying and student safety after Mia Mejia’s death
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Summary
Dozens of students, coaches and family members told the Anaheim Union High School District board that disciplinary action, an independent investigation and anti‑bullying supports are needed after the death of 13‑year‑old Mia Mejia; trustees said the district is investigating and pledged follow‑up.
Dozens of parents, students and coaches urged the Anaheim Union High School District board on Thursday to launch an independent investigation and take disciplinary action following the death of 13‑year‑old Mia Mejia and other safety incidents.
Elise Halbreich, a student and coach who trains at Air Gymnastics, told trustees that Mia “was assaulted and harassed on your property under the supervision of your faculty” and demanded five specific remedies: an anti‑bullying and suicide‑prevention program in Mia’s honor, a bereavement support group, disciplinary actions, staff training, and a thorough, unbiased investigation. “We’ll continue to show up,” Halbreich said.
Amber Polaga, program director at Aero Gymnastics, said it has been almost 10 months since Mia’s death and that families have seen “no accountability, no real change.” “Why has there been no action?” Polaga asked the board, saying district staff had removed students from programs in her experience when they harmed others.
Bianca Garcia, who identified herself as Mia Mejia’s cousin, directly addressed the outgoing superintendent and the board, saying the community expects leaders “to step up, fulfill your duty, make decisions that will actually make a difference” and to hold the district accountable to a mission of safe education.
A parent and community volunteer, Roberto Garcia, presented survey results he said showed widespread concern among students: 50 percent of students reported witnessing bullying daily, half said they did not trust staff to stop bullying, 68 percent of victims reported inadequate staff support, and more than 40 percent said they did not feel safe at school. He urged increased adult supervision, annual ethnic‑sensitivity training and mandatory Title IX instruction.
Board President responded that “the board hears you,” saying the district is investigating and “taking action” after public comment. Superintendent Michael Matsuda, who later gave a district update, thanked first responders and staff and said most students injured in a separate cross‑country vehicle incident were out of the hospital; one remained under observation.
Speakers requested clear next steps. Several parents and students called for a private, independent review and for the board to follow the Mejia family’s requests for concrete policy and disciplinary responses. Trustees acknowledged the concerns and asked staff to continue communicating updates.
What happens next: Trustees said the district’s investigative processes are underway and that the board will receive updates through staff reports and future meetings. Several speakers said they will return until they see results.
