Mother Withdraws Children from School Due to Bullying

“I feel bad for other kids that are getting bullied, and they don’t want to say anything because if they do, they are literally shown nothing is done,’ says frustrated mom

As new residents of Innisfil, Jennifer Thompson and her family were excited to begin their life in the area.

She enrolled her two children at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School, but her son reportedly started facing bullying right away.

Thompson mentioned that her son had never been bullied before, but she claims a group of kids – both boys and girls – made his life a nightmare. She stated that she spoke to her son’s teacher, the secretary, the vice-principal, and the principal, Loriana Nicoletta-Liguori, about the issue.

“Everyone knows in there. Everyone,” she said.

She claims Nicoletta-Liguori stated there would be “serious consequences,” including suspension for those involved if the bullying continued. However, when it persisted, Thompson said the principal changed her stance and claimed they could not suspend students.

“Not only that, she then questioned whether or not the bullying actually happened,” Thompson alleged. “No one’s doing anything.”

She added that the supposed bullies began calling her son a “rat” since he sought help to resolve the situation. According to Thompson, every time she raised concerns about bullying from September until early December, school officials would say they would “monitor the situation” and email parents.

“I was like, ‘No, no, no. I’m gonna deal with it now,’” Thompson said.

Her son was feeling “really low about himself,” so Thompson decided to withdraw her kids from school.

She claims to have met another parent who took their child out of St. Francis for similar reasons.

Thompson requested that all parents meet so they could voice their concerns together.

She also asked for contact information for the parents of those accused of bullying; however, this was not advised by the principal.

“If they don’t get in trouble or have consequences, they’re going to keep doing it,” Thompson said. “They don’t care. They think it’s a game. Like it’s a joke.”

Nicoletta-Liguori asserted that the school takes “bullying seriously.”

“We use a number of resources, policies and practices to guide our response including progressive discipline,” she said. “At the same time we work to address root causes and we always must respect the privacy of everyone involved.”

The issues can be “complicated,” she added.

“The staff at St. Francis cares deeply about creating safe welcoming and inclusive spaces and we do respond promptly and appropriately when incidents of bullying occur,” Nicoletta-Liguori stated.

“We are often dealing with students who may not fully understand how their words or actions impact others due to various reasons. As faith-based educators we aim to teach kindness empathy and compassion through different methods such as restorative practices or engaging in school counseling resources or support.”

A Dec. 8 email sent out to parents mentions that on Dec. 5 the principal and vice-principal met with a Grade 7 class saying in part:

We reminded our students of the consequences of bullying as there are clear expectations along with consequences. As part of our school’s Progressive Discipline approach responses may include:

A conversation with a teacher or administrator Reflection assignments or restorative conversations Loss of privileges Contact home Meetings involving parents/guardians Behaviour contracts Suspension in more serious or repeated cases

The consequences depend on how often and severe behaviors are displayed; our goal is helping students learn from their choices while ensuring safety for everyone involved.

We reminded students that if they experience bullying or witness it they should talk with a teacher Vice-Principal or Principal. Our intention isn’t about punishing anyone but ensuring every student feels supported respected and safe at school.

“They should put things in place to make children who are being bullied feel safe instead of feeling like they’re going through hell … excuse my language but that’s what it feels like for them at school … that’s what it feels like every day,” Thompson expressed.

Said her youngest child faced bullying once at another school where principal explained why making fun was unacceptable; this resulted in no recess for that child after which it didn’t happen again!

Another parent working within education who wishes anonymity will be referred here as Anna.

Anna’s daughter experienced bullying while attending St Francis urging mother share thoughts since “people need know this is happening”.

“My daughter feels like no one cares. During whole period felt nobody cared. Because felt did what had advocate tried speak up yet brushed off misunderstood. So ultimately kids aren’t feeling supported ” Anna shared.

“( My son ) cried years basically forced him into building. But once got there kind OK even awkward tried find ways make feel safe. ”

Acknowledged professionals try intervene when witnessing bully attempts recognize administrators must find ways communicate sometimes discreetly requiring time , echoed faculty cannot disclose identities involved incidents due privacy issues.

For parents most pressing issue planet because concern kid , Anna noted. Kid goes home says you know Frank Teddy Bob punched me face nobody staff can respond directly regarding complaints !

Cassie Medve-Racine catholic board’s student engagement superintendent indicates board has launched new anti-bullying policy recently includes online reporting tool too!

“Anti-bullying awareness prevention something continue work on as educational establishment ” Medve-Racine remarked explaining efforts extend beyond simply disciplining harmful behaviors apply research best practices develop effective long-term strategies addressing problems!

It isn’t easy families victimized appreciate long-term approaches focused education rather than just punishments seeking best interest child ; understand obligation collaborate each student family schools privacy limits sharing details situations handled !

Anna describes systemic problem hopes officials re-evaluate using progressive discipline methods suggesting tough position saying administrators genuinely want help hands tied accurately investigating cases isn’t always possible!

Although unrelated specific instances boards across Ontario required report violent happenings Ministry Education annually since2011.

OPSEU Local330 recently claimed thousands violent acts occurred Simcoe County schools during2024/25 academic year!

Annasuspects these might result lack police liaison officers visiting facilities regularly !

 

The Ministry Education emphasizes teaching personal safety topics focus developing skills identifying preventing resolving issues relating harassment violence relationshipsincluding cyberbullying peer assault child abuse ! Curriculum released2019 states skills applicable both face-to-face environments online situations !

 

Please note although wasn’t mentioning particular regulations frameworks exist transferring ministry boards without implementation plans regularly pose challenges faced jointly institutionally !

 

This situation likely stems beyond solely institutions remarks anna elaborating proliferation cancel culture karen behavior shifted accountability burdens onto others changing dynamics amongst youth therefore attributing responsibility external factors affecting morale instead fostering resilience crucial adjustments required future outlooks moving forward also leads disconnect between beliefs acceptable interactions real-time versus digital contexts appearances shape opinions youths experiencing normalizing negative exchanges considered commonplace unfairly impacting well-being surrounding environments !

 

“Teenagers see rage baiting exciting.. inherently falls under category known being mean thus constitutes formabuse”Anna stated candidly reinforcing greater focus needed educating embracing understanding behavior norms balancing compassion character development ideally nurturing supportive atmospheres learning settings essential growth outcomes positively overall collective well-being community individuals alike holistically enriching experiences uphold values integrity inclusivity fairness universally recognized ideals underpinning society essentials necessary cultivation harmonious relations interpersonal dynamics fostered within youthful groups promoting healthy engagement principles established guiding conduct among peers very vital foundation establishing friendships supporting foundations achieving mutual trust respect cultivating respectful environments empower success thriving generations enhancing lives enriching pathways possibility choice inspired pursuing aspirations fortifying bonds strengthening relationships relying constructive collaboration helping navigate complexities everyday social spheres invaluable contributions shaping brighter futures united efforts combined seamlessly intertwined enhancing intergenerational continuity built shared purpose ambitious goals reinforcing commitment building strong communities empowered youth equipped tackle obstacles arise inspiring courage forge ahead diligently while maintaining empathy along way instilling confidence fostering resilience necessary navigating diverse world awaiting ahead encouraging collaborative spirit uniting strive achieve greatness collaboratively propelling forward momentum positive change unleash untapped potential thrive midst constantly evolving landscape challenges opportunities awaiting exploration fuel passions drive propel dreams transform visions realities “.  

TOM THOMPSON mentions both kids flourishing new environment expressing positive sentiments overall improved outlooks indicating appreciation support received throughout transition process emphasizing importance prioritizing mental health stability nurturing wellness reflected improvement attitudes showing promise trajectory paving future successes avenues possibilities reignited interests pursuits engaged actively within surroundings despite initial setbacks encountered previous institution affirming resilience adaptability fortitude inherent strength seen shine brightly paving way brighter horizons filled hope endless opportunities awaiting participants journeys unfold accordingly guiding paths evolving stories sharing narratives highlighting transformative effects impactful shifts implemented nourishing atmosphere conducive learning cultivating respect dignity enabling individual uniqueness celebrated embraced reiterating significance incorporating holistic approaches reform entire system ensure inclusivity valuable reinforcement integral prosperity foundations utmost importance uplifted united front collaborating dialogue promote awareness empowering voices silenced create change substantial enhance lives collectively advocating rights safeguarding privileges dignity nurtured ensured advocacy demonstrates solidarity underpins community-driven initiatives driven toward upliftment unity justice empowerment continuing cultivate empowered future recognizing intrinsic value diversity harmony integral fabric society envisioned prosperous realities resonate resonate uplifting spirits invoking sense belonging peace enabling thrive communities enriched spirit coexistence intertwining shared values guiding principles uplifting standards promoting ethical accountability societal progress compassionate empathy driving force uplifting humanity breaking barriers elevate connections strengthening ties fostering growth fostering understanding love reciprocity implementing solutions harmoniously sustaining transformational journey paving way optimism bright radiant tomorrow unfolding embrace potentiality glowing brightness illuminating possibilities ushering forth empowering legacies forth live forevermore transcending limitations confrontations inspire continue enhancing illuminate trails trodden march onward alongside reinvigorated hope heartfelt commitments stimulate revolutionary changes grounded truth excellence driven passion unwavering steadfast determination towards utopian ideal realms envisioned equality sustaining ethos paramount carrying torch illuminating pathways symbiotic existence rooted profound intentions noble endeavors boundless capabilities invigorate human essence celebrating life experiences intertwining destinies weaving tapestry rich narrative vibrant legacy extending far beyond moment embody extraordinary triumphs burgeoning capabilities flourishing richness promised beautiful tomorrows forged unbreakable bonds nurturing deep connections inspire awe transformation blossoming partnerships paving roads exhilarating adventures await embedding footprints histories carried passed generations woven storylines flourish vivid memories cherished echo eternity!!

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