Internet can make school bullying more violent, public

Internet can make school bullying more violent, public

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By John Dabkovich, Eyewitness News

Teens and younger kids are using the Internet more than ever. And that made bullying more violent and public than ever.

Schoolyard fights are now posted on sites like YouTube.

Bullying experts say schools have a hard time stopping bullies. Either because they don't see it or don't want to acknowledge it. Bullying expert Derek Randell says the "No Child Left Behind Act" penalizes schools that have too many cases of violence.

Lack of response has led to frustration for some parents.

Jessica Hicks says her son Elijah, 5, has been diagnosed with "Pervasive Developmental Disorder." It's a form of autism that keeps him from understanding social issues like personal space. She says that has made him a target for bullies at school.

"He's been smacked, pushed down, choked," Hicks says.

Hicks also says administrators at San Lauren Elementary School dismissed it as normal rough-housing.

"This administration is dead wrong, and I think they need a wake up call," says Randell.

San Lauren Elementary School administrators did not return calls for an interview.

Jessica Hicks has moved to Southern California to find a school where Elijah will get the supervision and special education she feels he needs.

Bullying can also have a tragic effect on a family. Earlier this year, an 11-year-old from Georgia named Jaheem Herrera committed suicide after his family says he was teased at school. Wednesday, a judge ruled there was no evidence Herrera was bullied.

His family disagrees and are planning to sue the school district.
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