Greensburg schools set up anti bullying plan

GREENSBURNG, Ind. (WISH) - A school system is taking a big step just a week after a boy commits suicide after being bullied.

New tonight, the superintendent of Greensburg Community Schools says in his ten years as the top official he has never had to deal with such a difficult situation.

Tom Hunter is talking about the death of 15 year old Billy Lucas. He committed suicide and within a day dozens of fellow students said it was because the boy was bullied since he was ten. The school system issued a video statement on their website late Friday afternoon.
Superintendent Tom Hunter says, "This is more than just a tragedy, it is devastating and our hearts go out to his family as they deal with this great personal loss. All of us at Greensburg have been proud of the programs and educational experiences we have provided for our students, but this situation has caused us to question whether we have done enough."

Greensburg Schools has come up with an action plan. They've called on a national organization called the Jason Foundation to train staff and the community next month. Secondly, they are working with the Indiana Department of Education on an anti-bullying program for the school. An outside expert will train staff on diversity and tolerance. Plus, there will be a community advisory committee and a request for a new position for a full time counselor to deal with bully issues.

I-Team 8 has been the watchdog on schools for the last eight years since our investigation prompted Indiana’s only anti-bully law. We will stay on it. To see the entire new anti-bully plan click here www.greensburg.k12.in.us