WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. -- Following complaints from parents in the Williamsville School District that the district is not doing enough to address bullying concerns, Superintendent Dr. Scott Martzloff spoke to 2 On Your Side's Claudine Ewing.
"We do have an active investigation. Certainly when there's cases that take place around the district relate to a discipline issue, all has to be investigated, we simply just can't jump to conclusions and then deliver discipline. We need to make sure we do an appropriate investigation that's fair to all students that may be involved," says Dr. Martzloff.
2 On Your Side asked some parents, residents and even a student if the district is doing enough.
"It's an answer a little late in the game," said Susan Wattle, a parent in Williamsville. "The response from the school board and the principal of north high school should have come much sooner in the process than it did."
"Confidentiality is one thing, but when you have students and kids lives in your responsibility for eight hours a day or more than you should have more communication," said Sam Seiler, a Williamsville resident.
"What would you like to see as a student?" 2 On Your Side's Josh Boose asked Kianne Cannon, a student in the district.
"More outreach," Cannon replied.
"By who, the teachers?" Boose followed-up.
"By teachers, administration, other students," said Cannon.
Nearly two weeks ago, Williamsville North High School student Jamey Rodemeyer was found dead from an apparent suicide. His parents say he was bullied at school by some students.
Web Extras:
If you or someone you know is dealing with this issue, there is help available. Below is a list of organizations to turn to:
- Child & Adolescent Treatment Services: 819-3420 www.mentalhealthforwnykids.org
- Gay and Lesbian Youth Services: Drop-In Center, 371 Delaware Avenue in Buffalo. During the school year, open M-Th 2:30-730 P.M. 855-0221 or www.glyswny.org
- Child & Family Services: 681-5718 or www.cfsbny.org
- Crisis Services: 24 hr.hotline-834-3131/ Kids Helpline-834-1144, toll free-1-877-KIDS 400 or www.crisisservices.org
- The Trevor Project: A suicide prevention program for LGBT and questioning youth: 1-866-488-7386 or www.thetrevorproject.org
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: www.afsp.org
-Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays: www.pflag-buffalo-niagara.org