My child has been a victim of relentless bullying at Yellowquill School in Portage La Prairie for almost three years now. This has not only affected their mental health, but it is teaching them the wrong message about what’s acceptable from them and the people around them. Unfortunately, this issue is not isolated. Many friends and fellow parents have shared similar stories. Their children, who attend École Arthur Meighen School and La Verendrye School, are enduring the same pain.

Bullying should never be a part of the educational experience, and yet it continues to plague our schools due to inadequate and ineffective responses from the Portage La Prairie School Division. These incidents have been met with minimal consequences for the bullies, allowing the cycle of intimidation and fear to persist unabated. The psychological and educational impact of bullying is profound, leading to decreased academic performance, increased absenteeism, and soaring rates of anxiety and depression among our children.

Statistics show that over 71% of students ages 12-18 experience bullying nationwide, with many going unreported due to fear of retaliation or belief that nothing will change. In Portage La Prairie, this situation is exacerbated by the lack of adequate action from the schools and school division. The effects are not only immediate but carry long-term repercussions well into adulthood.

We need the Portage La Prairie School Division to take concrete and meaningful actions to address this pervasive issue. Schools within the division must develop and implement a comprehensive anti-bullying policy that ensures accountability and protects our children. This policy should include scheduled awareness programs, professional development for staff on handling bullying, a clear procedure for reporting and addressing incidents, and support systems for victims.

Further, it is vital that the school division collaborates with parents, students, and mental health professionals to create a safe and supportive educational environment for every student. Timely interventions and appropriate consequences for any form of bullying must become the norm.

It is time for the Portage La Prairie School Division to demonstrate a commitment to fostering a safe learning environment where students can flourish without fear. Please sign this petition to demand accountability from our educators and protect the well-being and future of our children.