My daughter is a sixth-grade student in the William Floyd school district, who is constantly being bullied. Despite numerous complaints to the school authorities, no substantial action has been taken. The bullies are merely reprimanded lightly and the bullying continues or even escalates.

This is not an isolated incident but a reflection of a systemic failure within our school district's anti-bullying policy. It's time we hold the William Floyd School District accountable for their lack of concern and ineffective response towards such serious issues.

Bullying can have long-term psychological effects on children. According to data from National Center for Education Statistics and Bureau of Justice Statistics, approximately 20% of students aged 12-18 experienced bullying nationwide during the 2016-2017 school year. This figure is alarmingly high and shows that more needs to be done to protect our children in schools.

We demand that the William Floyd School District take immediate steps to review their anti-bullying policy, ensure its effective implementation and provide proper training to staff members so they can handle such situations appropriately.

Our children deserve a safe learning environment where they can grow without fear. We urge you all - parents, teachers, community members in Mastic Beach - join us in this fight against bullying in our schools by signing this petition today!