Our children, the students of Maconaquah Schools in Peru, IN, face abuse on a daily basis. Dale Sommers, the individual behind the wheel of their school bus, has been reportedly abusive towards them for years now. Countless of our youth are dreading school each day, not due to the educational system, but due to the fear instilled in them by Dale’s bullying. Parents are left with no choice but to take on the added responsibility of chauffeuring their children to school, a result of their children's reluctance to board Dale's bus. The chilling fear and trauma evident on our children's faces compel us to act and voice out our concerns.

Complaints have inundated the school administration about Dale's inappropriate conduct, but no action has been taken yet. In fact, he is still allowed to continue tormenting the students. This inaction on the part of school officials towards an issue of such serious gravity is inexcusable.

This alarming situation poses massive psychological threats to our children. Research shows that children who experience bullying exhibit an increased risk for mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and even suicidal tendencies. (source: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development)

The dismissal of Dale Sommers is not a matter of penalization, but a measure to ensure the safety and mental wellbeing of our children. It's time the school administration prioritizes protecting our children over keeping an abusive school bus driver on staff. Let us rally, call on the local authorities, demand action, and end this longstanding reign of terror. Let our children reclaim their right to a safe journey to school. Sign this petition today and stand with us to eliminate bullying on our school buses.