It is about time

I am happy to hear that DA Scheibel announced that she is charging six teenagers and three juvenile students in connection with the death of Phoebe Prince, the South Hadley teenager who took her life in response to constant harassment and bullying. The DA is sending a message that bullying will not be tolerated. Finally!

Students, parents and the community at large have to understand that words and actions do have a negative impact on the health of another causing psychological and in this case physical harm. People have to learn that they are responsible and accountable for what they do, especially if it causes damage to someone.

Schools also have to be responsible for protecting and safeguarding our children. It is their obligation to act upon all reports of bullying and proceed with a thorough investigation especially if it is witnessed by members of the school's staff and teachers. It is imperative for schools to create a sense of community at their facility where each member is protected and guaranteed the right to be safe.

We have to make sure that students, parents and school administrators are accountable for their actions and work together as a team to develop an atmosphere of inclusiveness and acceptance.

The Yubbie Foundation is dedicated to educating students, parents, teachers and administrators on the long term effects of bullying and how to create a sense of community at their schools.

Call Me Yubbie my new book release talks about the impact of bullying on a young man and the ways he tried to cope. He too thought of ending his life. My book is fiction but is in part based on true events that occurred in my life. Unlike Phoebe's story Call Me Yubbie has a positive outcome. I understand what Phoebe felt and feel vindicated that someone has finally decided to take action.