Bullying is a major problem in schools of all levels across the
nation.
An alleged local case that was brought to light in a story in
Monday’s Free Lance should make us aware that it can happen
here.
Bullying is a major problem in schools of all levels across the nation.
An alleged local case that was brought to light in a story in Monday’s Free Lance should make us aware that it can happen here.
The effects on a student can be devastating, and we are confident every teacher and administrator in San Benito County is guarding against it with due diligence.
We can also understand why Hollister School District officials would think twice about quickly approving an out-of-district transfer request with bullying cited as a main reason.
Setting such a policy, or changing a standing one in this general area, could set the stage for a logistical nightmare, not to mention the unfortunate but realistic possibility of numerous litigation threats.
On the other hand, this is nothing to be waved off or dismissed as a student not being able to get along with others. The problem should also not be made the main burden of the parents.
Bullying on campus is a school and school district responsibility. Prevention is, of course, the key, but taking proper action once it has been alleged is also a must.
So we agree with the San Benito County Office of Education board for overturning the transfer request denial, which will allow a student to attend an out-of-district school.
Bullying is serious. And if it can be resolved in a reasonable manner, then all parties should quickly work in that direction, not get hung up in past policy or concerns about setting too much of a precedent.
It’s easy these days for appeal boards to rubber stamp any decision that is made before it arrives on their agenda.
But for the process to work, each case must be carefully weighed and examined.
In this case, we feel the right decision was ultimately made, a tribute to the process itself and the resolve of all parties involved.
Since it involved the subject of bullying, it also served as a strong reminder that it must be guarded against by all of us every day, with every single student in San Benito County.
To respond to this editorial or comment on this issue, please send or bring letters to Editor, Hollister Free Lance, 350 Sixth St., Hollister, Calif. 95023 or fax to 637-4104 or e-mail to
ed****@fr***********.com
