My son, a student in Chatsworth, GA, was bullied relentlessly. When he finally stood up for himself, he was sent to an alternative school. This is not just his story; it's the story of countless children who face bullying and are punished for defending themselves. It's time we question our policies - why is self-defense legal for adults but not for our children?

The current bullying policy does not adequately protect our children from daily torment, sometimes even from teachers themselves. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics (2019), approximately 20% of students aged 12-18 experienced bullying nationwide. This figure could be higher as many cases go unreported due to fear or lack of faith in the system.

Our schools should be safe havens where learning thrives without fear. We demand that Chatsworth schools reform their policies on bullying and self-defense to reflect this ideal - by ensuring bullies are held accountable and victims are allowed to defend themselves without punitive consequences.

We urge you to stand with us against this injustice that affects too many innocent lives every day in Chatsworth schools. Please sign this petition today – let’s make a safer environment for our children together!