Greenville, SC: Family Files Lawsuit After Daughter’s Attempted Suicide Due to Bullying
A Greenville County family has taken legal action against the school district, claiming their daughter’s attempt to take her own life was a direct result of ongoing bullying at her middle school. The lawsuit was filed in federal court and alleges that Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School ignored numerous reports of bullying against the girl, which began in August 2021.
Details of the Allegations
According to the court documents, the girl, identified as Kelaia Tecora Turner, endured both physical and verbal abuse from fellow students. Disturbingly, the bullying allegedly escalated to such a degree that Kelaia attempted suicide in 2021 by hanging. Although she survived, the severe nature of her injuries resulted in significant brain damage, profoundly impacting her life and that of her family.
School District’s Response
The Greenville County Schools district has responded to the allegations, stating they have conducted thorough investigations into the claims made by Kelaia’s parents. A spokesperson emphasized that the district disagrees with the allegations, asserting that they have addressed the issue directly with the family.
“While we do not agree with the allegations, our hearts go out to Kelaia Tecora Turner, her mother, and their family,” the district’s statement read. The district maintains a commitment to anti-bullying measures and has programs in place to educate students about recognizing and reporting bullying.
School Protocols on Bullying
Greenville County Schools outlined their protocols concerning bullying incidents. When a school becomes aware of possible bullying behavior, they investigate the claims promptly and confidentially. The district takes any reports seriously, implementing disciplinary measures against offending students and ensuring preventative strategies are in place to deter future incidents.
Legal Context and Procedures
As part of the legal proceedings, the family is seeking accountability from the school and its administrators. They argue that despite multiple communications alerting the school about the bullying, no effective intervention was made to protect Kelaia. The lawsuit calls into question the responsibility of the school to maintain a safe environment for all students.
The situation underscores the serious nature of bullying in educational settings and the potential consequences that can result from negligence. The family’s attorney stated that they believe strong actions are necessary to ensure that schools are held accountable for the well-being of their students.
Next Steps for the Family
As the legal proceedings unfold, Kelaia’s family is focused on advocating for better protections for students facing bullying. They hope that their case will not only address their daughter’s suffering but also foster systemic change within the school district to better protect children from similar experiences. The family is committed to raising awareness about the severe impact of bullying and the importance of effective school policies.
Conclusion
This case highlights critical discussions around bullying in schools and the urgent need for proactive measures to ensure student safety. With the family’s legal actions underway, the Greenville community and broader educational circles are closely watching how this situation unfolds.
