Greenville County Student’s Bullying Case Raises Alarming Concerns
Greenville, SC — A heartbreaking case has emerged from Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School, where a 12-year-old Black student, Kelaia Turner, attempted suicide in March 2023 after enduring relentless physical and verbal bullying from her peers. Her parents have since filed a 24-page federal lawsuit against school district officials, alleging that their concerns were ignored and that the bullying contributed significantly to Kelaia’s tragic state.
What Happened
The lawsuit claims that the bullying began when Kelaia was just 11 years old in August 2021, shortly after she started wearing her natural hair to school. According to the complaint, peers taunted her with derogatory names like “roach” and “mustache face.” School officials allegedly failed to intervene, allowing the harassment to escalate over time.
When Did the Bullying Start?
Bullying incidents reportedly continued until Kelaia attempted suicide on March 17, 2023, after confiding in a friend about her suicidal thoughts. The attempt left her with severe brain damage, requiring a tracheotomy and feeding tube for survival. Kelaia spent an agonizing 101 days in the hospital.
Why Did This Happen?
Kelaia’s mother, Ty Turner, noted that the bullying intensified after Kelaia decided to embrace her natural appearance. The suit claims that, rather than providing support, a teacher actually participated in the bullying. In one troubling incident, when a student asked, ‘Where’s the roach?’, the teacher reportedly pointed in Kelaia’s direction.
The Response from School Officials
Kelaia’s parents reached out formally to Principal Jeremie Smith and the teacher, expressing concern that “children committed suicide from this behavior in the past.” Despite acknowledging their complaints, little was done to alleviate the situation. Kelaia reportedly faced retaliation from her peers, and further incidents of bullying continued throughout the school year.
One particular incident highlighted in the lawsuit involved a student playing a song with derogatory racial stereotypes, which was heard by a teacher who took no action. Kelaia’s experience of having water poured on her clothes and her belongings thrown in the garbage only added to her distress.
The Aftermath of the Suicide Attempt
After her tragic suicide attempt, Kelaia’s condition rendered her non-verbal and dependent on around-the-clock care, significantly altering her family’s life. Her parents have filed the lawsuit seeking damages for medical and psychiatric expenses, lost wages while caring for Kelaia, and other related costs.
The School District’s Statement
In response to the allegations, the Greenville County Schools issued a statement expressing sympathy for the family, asserting that all reported incidents were thoroughly investigated. They denied the claims of neglect toward parent concerns, emphasizing their commitment to addressing bullying through established policies.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist Kelaia’s family with the mounting medical expenses. The online campaign has seen substantial support, raising $92,215—a figure that far exceeds its initial goal of $15,000.
Conclusion
The devastating situation surrounding Kelaia Turner highlights the urgent need for effective anti-bullying policies in schools. As her family seeks justice and healing, the community’s focus remains on combating bullying in all forms, ensuring no child has to endure what Kelaia has faced.
