Greenville County Student Tragedy Highlights Urgent Need for Anti-Bullying Measures

Greenville County Student Attempts Suicide Amid Severe Bullying

In Greenville County, South Carolina, a tragic case of bullying has emerged, involving a 12-year-old student, Kelaia Turner. According to a federal lawsuit filed by her parents, Kelaia attempted suicide in March 2023 after enduring relentless torment from peers. The lawsuit highlights a pattern of physical and verbal bullying that began when she was just 11 years old.

Background of the Incident

Kelaia attended Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School where she faced harassment starting in August 2021. Classmates reportedly made derogatory remarks regarding her appearance, with some calling her names such as “roach” and “mustache face.” Her mother, Ty Turner, suspects the abuse intensified after Kelaia began wearing her natural hair to school.

Despite the family’s complaints to the school administration, including Principal Jeremie Smith and teacher Olivia Bennett, Kelaia’s situation did not improve. Instead of intervening, Bennett allegedly participated in the bullying, pointing Kelaia out when a student asked about a “roach.”

Escalation of Bullying

The lawsuit details how Kelaia’s parents raised concerns about the bullying multiple times, warning that such behavior could lead to severe consequences. However, they felt that their pleas went unaddressed. For instance, when Kelaia was the only student suspended after a fight, her parents expressed their frustration, noting that the student who instigated the fight faced no consequences.

Furthermore, the situation worsened when another student played “The Black People Song”, which contained racially insensitive stereotypes, during class. Despite a teacher’s presence, no action was taken against the student.

Critical Incident and Aftermath

On March 11, 2023, Kelaia confided in a friend about having suicidal thoughts. Feeling hopeless and trapped in a hostile environment, she attempted to take her own life by hanging in her bedroom six days later. Emergency responders revived her, but the consequences were severe: Kelaia sustained brain damage and has since been left incapacitated, requiring a tracheotomy tube for breathing and a feeding tube for nourishment.

The situation took an even darker turn when, during her recovery in the Intensive Care Unit, the same peers who bullied Kelaia reportedly visited her and took photos while she lay comatose, sharing those images on social media.

Legal Action and School District Response

Kelaia’s parents have since filed a 24-page federal lawsuit against the school district and specific faculty members, seeking damages for Kelaia’s medical bills, ongoing care, and emotional suffering. The family argues that the school’s negligence contributed to the bullying and Kelaia’s tragic outcome.

In response to the lawsuit, the Greenville County Schools district has denied the allegations, stating that they have thoroughly addressed all reported incidents in accordance with policy. Tim Waller, a district spokesperson, expressed sympathy toward Kelaia but asserted that all complaints from parents were taken seriously and reviewed.

Current Situation and Impact

Today, Kelaia remains in a critical condition, unable to communicate and requiring constant care. Her story has garnered attention highlighting the urgent need to tackle bullying and support measures in schools effectively.

To assist with Kelaia’s medical expenses, her father has set up a GoFundMe page which has so far raised an impressive $92,215, exceeding its initial target of $15,000. The actions taken in response to Kelaia’s situation might influence future policies on bullying prevention in schools.