My 2 Cents: Bullying In Schools

We have been careful not to jump to the conclusion that yesterday's suicide at Stillwater Jr. High was the result of bullying. The district says it has no record of that student being bullied, and his parents told a media outlet they don't believe bullying played a part in his death, although some students say he was teased.

Nonetheless several of you sounded off on the growing bullying problem in schools. So I ask is it because our kids are getting softer and not able to take simple teasing, or is bullying really worse than it was than when we were in school?

Of course it is.

Just look at how much more violent juvenile crime is than it was 20 years ago. I've reported on it every day, trust me. Dare I say a lot of kids are just meaner these days?

Parents, if your kid is being bullied, if they know of a child being bullied, don't ignore it. Take action.

Don't second guess yourself, or worry that you're overreacting. These things can escalate quickly, especially when social media is involved.

Go to the school, meet with the principal, and tell them what is going on. They don't want children being bullied in their school either. And let the school know you will be following up to make sure there are no repercussions from other students.

It's happening folks, and it's not the same as it was when we were kids.

I'm Kelly Ogle and that's My 2 Cents.