SANGER, Calif. (KFSN) — In a heart-wrenching effort to combat bullying, a Sanger Unified mother is joining forces with local organizations to raise awareness about the issue. Her initiative comes after she claims the school district has not done enough to protect her son, Kent, from persistent bullying both online and in person.
A Child’s Love for School Turned Sour
Mao Her recalls a time when her son, Kent, was enthusiastic about attending school. However, following ongoing bullying from classmates at Sanger West High School, Kent’s attitude has changed dramatically. His academic performance has declined, and he now experiences significant anxiety.
“To have this happen to my son is just so devastating,” Her said. “We have slept very little since March; we have been so distressed over this situation.”
The Instagram Account Incident
The situation escalated in March when Her discovered an Instagram account dedicated to mocking her son and highlighting his disabilities. The account, reportedly created in 2019, had amassed over 450 followers and continued to be active at the beginning of the school year.
“The page, what it says in there is just welcoming everyone back and telling everyone to get a picture of my son,” said Chang Moua, Kent’s father. “We started in March, and we got no answers until August 27th when I appeared at the board meeting.”
Her expressed frustration, stating, “With 470 posts, most of the followers are from Sanger West High School, and nothing was being done in those months.”
Eventually, the account was removed by Instagram, but the delay in action left the family feeling powerless and unsupported.
School District’s Response
In response to the allegations, Sanger Unified School District issued a statement affirming its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy regarding bullying, whether it occurs on campus or online. The district credited its collaboration with law enforcement and parents for the removal of the Instagram account, while also noting that it cannot comment on specific disciplinary actions.
Seeking Support from Local Organizations
In light of the challenges they faced, Kent’s parents reached out for assistance from the Fresno Center and Stop the Hate. These organizations have provided valuable resources, helping the family prepare complaints for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the California Department of Education.
The Fresno Center emphasizes its commitment to assisting individuals facing discrimination or bullying, whether in school, online, or within the community. “We can connect them to therapy, even talking to the school, maybe helping them go through the process with them, just being their moral support,” said Cyndee Loryang from Stop the Hate.
A Message to the Bullies
Kent’s parents are not only grateful for the support they have received but also want to address the children involved in the bullying, as well as their parents. “This is wrong in every way,” Her stated. “You have harmed my son mentally and physically, and he’s going to carry it for the rest of his life.”
Community Engagement and Future Initiatives
To further raise awareness about bullying and foster community solidarity, a Unity Walk and United Against Hate Block Party are scheduled for this Thursday at 4:30 PM at the Fresno Center. Her hopes that the event will encourage community members to learn more about their family’s story and support the Stop the Hate Initiative.
The Broader Implications of Bullying
This case underscores the pervasive issue of bullying in schools, a concern that extends beyond the immediate effects on victims. The psychological impact can be long-lasting, affecting a child’s self-esteem and overall well-being. According to experts, addressing bullying requires a collaborative effort among parents, educators, and the community at large.
Community initiatives, such as the Unity Walk, serve not only to support affected families but also to educate others about the importance of kindness and empathy in schools. By promoting awareness and understanding, communities can work together to create safer and more inclusive environments for all children.
Moving Forward
As the Kuhlman family continues their fight against bullying, they remain hopeful that their efforts will lead to meaningful change. They are determined to ensure that no other child has to endure the pain that Kent has faced.
By collaborating with local organizations and engaging the community, they aim to foster a culture of respect and understanding. The Sanger community has an opportunity to stand united against bullying, emphasizing the importance of compassion and support for all students.
In the coming weeks, as they participate in events like the Unity Walk, Kent’s family hopes to inspire others to join the fight against bullying and advocate for a brighter future for all children. Their journey illustrates the power of resilience and the importance of community involvement in addressing serious social issues.
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