EDGAR, Wis. (WSAU) — A community is determined to stop what they call a bullying culture that exists in their schools.
Over 100 people turned out for the Edgar School District’s annual meeting, which began with a special meeting before the usual yearly business. Several of the parents and community members wore bright yellow “We are Jonny” tee shirts, remembering 16-year-old Jonathan Wesener (WES’ ehn er), who committed suicide in May after being the target of repeated bullying.
Jonathan’s father Steve was one of the speakers, and said, “Our son is dead as a result of bullying right under this roof.” He criticized the level of bullying that happens in school and says that has to change, challenging the school board to have the guts to “stand up and do their job.” When at the podium, Steve Wesener said, “He has already fallen through the cracks of a corrupt and socially intertwined system. I hope this meeting and show of support clearly states a complete and utter lack of confidence we all have in this administration and faculty.”
Other speakers said Jonathan’s death should not be blamed on the school board and faculty.
One parent says there are things families can do to see the signs of trouble. Joe Heil called on other parents to see what’s on their children’s phones and social media, where much of the silent bullying takes place with little or no detection. Others called for a stronger school district bullying policy and tough enforcement.
The special meeting to discuss bullying was scheduled to go from 7:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m., but the packed meeting room and concerned speakers kept the discussion going until well after 10:00 p.m.
There was no official school board action or policy change at this meeting. District Administrator Cari Guden issued a statement saying, “On behalf of the Edgar School District, we extend our condolences to the Wesener family. This tragic event has left many unanswered questions.” She added, “As School District Administrator, I know our teachers and staff members will continue to build positive relationships with our students and be supportive of their needs. We will build upon our current programs, making changes where appropriate. The school district will also continue to work together with the community.”
Those attending say they know there’s work ahead to prevent more tragedies and to keep a community from being divided by the sensitive issue. They are glad the conversation has begun on how to deal with bullying.
Jonathan Wesener was on the football team. His mother Angela said Jonathan didn’t tell her about the bullying, saying she wished she had one chance to help him, but didn’t get that chance.
