Former Student Sues School Over Alleged Bullying And Lack Of Support
A former student and his mother are suing a US school district, claiming the school didn’t stop ongoing bullying. The student, who attended Ronald Reagan Middle School in Haymarket, Virginia, says he faced constant verbal abuse, threats, and even had a “straight pride” poster made with his face on it.
The lawsuit, filed in June 2023, names the Prince William County School Board, the principal, Christopher Beemer, and former assistant principal, Jenita Boatwright, as defendants. Beemer still works at the school, but Boatwright has left.
“Asking for Help, Getting No Action”
The student, who is openly gay, started at the school in August 2019. He says the bullying began right away, with classmates taking his things and using slurs. Teachers reportedly did not stop these incidents.
The harassment allegedly got worse in December 2021, when five students surrounded him outside the school, again using slurs. The complaint says two nearby teachers did nothing, and the bullies made rude gestures at his mother.
A Poster and a Threat
In 2022, a student made a “straight pride” poster with his face. Bullies also cornered him in a bathroom, banging on the stall door and threatening him.
The lawsuit claims sex discrimination under Title IX and gross negligence. A judge partially dismissed the case against Beemer and Boatwright but allowed the case against the school board to continue. The plaintiffs have 14 days to amend their complaint.
A school board spokesperson stated they don’t comment on active cases but are committed to an inclusive environment and have zero tolerance for bullying.
