Why so long to stop bullying?
Tue May 20, 2008

To the editor:

I am confused about the recent story regarding a 15-year-old who was charged with bullying. I understand there was a 2.5-year history of bullying that occurred with another boy while at school. I find it unbelievable something this horrendous could go on for such a long period of time.

As a mother of two children, I can really empathize with the family, especially the boy, but, to be truthful, I simply do not understand how this could have gone on for so long without anyone (who had the power to stop it) knowing about it. Most likely, there would have been signs. The child would have been afraid to go to school, there may have been marks and bruises, someone would have witnessed it and the child surely would have complained about it. Something is seriously wrong.

How could we (I say we because I am referring to society) have let this child down? What can we do differently to ensure this never happens again? I am sure this bully will get a slap on the wrist for his crime, and maybe that is the real problem. Canada doesn't do enough to protect its children. I hope this bully gets the help he needs.

Jill Zolderdo

Port Perry