My experience at Bessemer City High School has driven me to feel unsafe and devastated. This situation has affected me so deeply that I've had to seek therapy to cope with the mental and emotional stress. I have loved playing sports since I was three years old, but the actions of the faculty  have completely drained my passion. I fear that if nothing is done, other students will also feel the way I have felt — scared, unsupported, and defeated.

Student safety and well-being should be the utmost priority in any educational institution. The faculty role is to foster a secure, encouraging environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. Unfortunately, at Bessemer City High, this is not the reality many of us face. Numerous accounts from my peers also reveal a climate of fear and discomfort, which should be unacceptable in any school setting.

We call on Gaston County Schools to thoroughly investigate the actions and leadership of the faculty  at Bessemer City High School to ensure all students' safety and well-being. We demand transparency in this investigation so that the entire school community is reassured and knows that their concerns are taken seriously.

Concrete steps should be taken to set up a supportive system where students can voice their concerns without fear of repercussions. This includes setting up a designated task force comprising of school officials, parents, and professionals in child psychology to evaluate the school's safety policies and practices. We also propose regular mental health check-ins for students and open dialogues between the administration and students to build trust and communication.

Countless students and parents have concerns that need to be addressed promptly. With a unified effort, our school can transform into a space where students feel empowered and protected.

Please join us in urging Gaston County Schools to take immediate action. Sign the petition to support the call for a safer and more supportive environment at Bessemer City High. Together, we can make a change.