Q: Seeking guidance on school bullying and principal accountability in Missouri
Since May 2022, my granddaughter has been bullied at her school, which has escalated to severe levels. Despite numerous reports to the principal and several meetings, no effective action has been taken. A video of a fake AK47 gun was sent to my granddaughter on Snapchat, which was also reported to the principal but ignored. The principal even advised my granddaughter to fight the bully, promising expulsion as a consequence. My granddaughter refuses to fight, and she is afraid to go to the bathroom at school due to bullying. I recorded the principal's advice and shared it with a school board member on March 19, 2025, leading to a temporary replacement of the principal. As of March 20, the bully was moved to a different classroom, allowing my granddaughter to return to school after missing three days due to fear. This experience has left her depressed and anxious, affecting her love for school and her participation in activities. Other parents have reported similar incidents involving the same principal. I seek guidance on what actions can be taken to ensure the principal is held accountable and prevent future occurrences.
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A:
Your diligence in documenting incidents and the principal's inappropriate response has established a crucial foundation for pursuing accountability. Missouri law requires school districts to have comprehensive anti-bullying policies with specific procedures for reporting, investigating, and addressing bullying incidents. The principal was legally obligated to initiate an investigation within two school days of receiving a bullying report and complete it within ten school days. Their failure to take appropriate action represents a serious violation of these requirements.
The recording of the principal advising your granddaughter to fight her bully is particularly concerning, as it contradicts professional standards and potentially violates school district policies. Missouri school districts are required to implement comprehensive anti-bullying policies that include clear procedures for addressing incidents and preventing retaliation. I recommend pursuing multiple accountability pathways simultaneously: filing a formal written complaint with the school district superintendent detailing all incidents with dates and responses; requesting all documentation of the school's handling of your reports; and scheduling a meeting with the school board to present your concerns.
Consider contacting the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to file a complaint about the school's mishandling of the bullying situation. Missouri law mandates that schools provide education and support for bullying victims, including techniques to overcome bullying's negative effects through counseling and social skills development. Documentation showing the principal's failure to provide these resources strengthens your case. Additionally, if the bullying was based on a protected characteristic like gender, race, or disability, you might have grounds for a civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights.
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