A Richmond family is alleging the school district is not addressing bullying issues involving their daughter in a local elementary school.
The family held a press conference stating their daughter has been continuously bullied at school by a male student and was even allegedly "kicked in the face during gym class" in October this year.
"As parents, we are heartbroken by what (our daughter) has been through, so we've repeatedly asked the school to move her to a different class to keep her away from the bully," said Jay, the father of the student.
They claimed the school refused their request and was told "children will grow" and encouraged the family to forgive the male student.
They claimed the vice-principal of the school also called their daughter "sensitive" and instructed the family they were not allowed to contact the male student's parents.
According to the parents, they asked the student to stop, and when his parents found out they allegedly insulted the mother "using racist language" after school.
"This situation has caused great pain for our family," said Jay.
"(Our daughter) used to love school, but now she feels anxious and often wakes up at night. As parents, it's heartbreaking to see our child suffering without support from the school."
The family is asking for an apology from the school, to clear the "sensitive" label and comment made about their daughter, a written report of the district's investigation results and "stronger anti-bullying policies" to prevent future incidents to students.
A petition, in the form of an open letter, was also started on Dec. 13 citing the alleged bullying incident with the hopes of bringing awareness of bullying that still happens in schools.
Richmond School District spokesperson David Sadler told the Richmond News the school's principal and district staff from the Office of the Superintendent have recently met with the family to provide support and address concerns.
He also added the district is aware of concerns raised in a recently circulated petition.
"We will continue to engage with the family to ensure ongoing communication and collaboration," said Sadler.
"The district is committed to maintaining open lines of communication and working closely with the family throughout this process."
When incidents of bullying are reported, school administrators investigate whether it violates the District Code of Conduct, explained Sadler.
If a violation is found, interventions are implemented, which include "restorative practices, supports, and education or disciplinary actions."
When a bullying incident is confirmed, parents or guardians of all parties involved are notified and are included in a resolution process, he added.
During the process, administrators will work with school counsellors and district staff to address the incident and provide support to students and families when needed.
"This approach is designed to prioritize student safety, promote accountability and ensure a respectful school environment," said Sadler.
"The district continues to evaluate its practices to ensure they align with the evolving needs of its school communities and will take meaningful steps to maintain environments where all students feel safe, respected, and supported."
The Richmond School District would not comment on specifics regarding the incident citing the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act for the protection of its students, staff or families involved.
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