I am starting this petition to enforce harsher consequences for bullying in our public school system. Bullies are allowed to run rampant in our schools and, because of lack of consequences for bullying, a 15 year old child has taken his own life, exactly 6 months later a young teenage girl did the same. Kids are being homeschooled because they are victimized at school. Bullies are being protected rather than disciplined. I am hoping for a 1,2,3 strikes you're out rule! 1st incident they get a warning and 2 days of detention unless it is physical or extreme bullying then it's automatic expulsion for the year with no second chances, 2nd incident 10 days out of school and zeros for all missed work, 3rd incident expulsion for the year. I would also like to ask that any child who is being targeted or physically abused by a bully can stand up for themselves and defend themselves without any consequences. I understand that fighting and violence is wrong and I don't condone it in any way, shape, or form. If a child has to defend themselves, then punishment for defending themselves is unfair and unnecessary. Furthermore, I am asking that any and all school personnel and administration that witnesses bullying and doesn't intervene will be charged with insubordination and terminated immediately! I strongly feel that if these children are held accountable for their actions at school and school personnel and administration are held accountable, they may open their eyes and realize that bullying really is serious and destructive. It's not just name calling, and shoving someone, it's abuse!  Please sign this petition and help me to end bullying or at least make a giant leap toward the extinction of bullying. We the parents are tired and we the parents are gonna be heard! Do what's right and approve this request that could save many young lives and teach others a life lesson to help them become kind and successful adults! Help us give our kids a future! This petition will be sent to the Tazewell County Board of Education as a start.