As someone who has battled the torment of school bullying firsthand, I empathize with the anguish the Bushman family and others are experiencing. Like Autumn Bushman, I too had to steel myself against constant harassment, while the perpetrators went unpunished. My defense was misconstrued; I faced the consequences while the real culprits walked away untouched. This persistent cycle of unaddressed bullying is not only heartbreaking, it also poses a significant threat to the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of our students.

It is time to demand reform. Roanoke, Virginia's schools need structured policies to ensure safety and inclusive environments for all students, free from bullying. Unfortunately, existing interventions are severely lacking. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, 20% of U.S students aged 12-18 experienced bullying in 2017. This majority goes unaddressed due to ineffective policies, leading to adverse long-term effects.

We are reaching out to the school board of Roanoke, VA to make a substantial change. We're not asking for just one more policy that is unenforced, but for a policy that guarantees immediate action, fair treatment, and consistent penalties for bullying. We should instill empathy, respect, and kindness in our students, rather than allowing them to suffer in hostile environments.

We stand with the Bushman family and all victims of bullying across our district. Help pave the way for a safer, more nurturing educational experience for our children. Sign this petition to champion the revision of Roanoke, VA's school bullying policies.