What are your thoughts on hecklers at school?

[GoddessOfGuinness]

My sister just moved back in November. Her younger girl, age 6, is apparently being heckled by a boy in her classbecause of her size. She's a big girl...not overweight, just tall and stocky...and a sweet-natured kid.

She told her mom about it, and my sister told her that the next time he does it, she should slug him. "But teacher says we aren't allowed to hit," my niece replied. Again my sister told her to "Flatten him."

I was dumbfounded when my sister told me this. I'd like to take the kid aside and give him a talking-to myself; but I can't believe she thinks insults are worth having her daughter suspended from school.

What are your thoughts?

[knowbody0]

1. the kid's ma is only going to make life more difficult

that advice is insane. poor kid. hope you can find good words for her to cope with being different.
good luck, auntie!

[GoddessOfGuinness]

2. We've been drifting apart for the last few years...

She's becoming more republican and more fundy (though not as rabid as some) in her views. That's what really bugs me about this...For all her Jesus-yak she doesn't seem to get the message he tried to preach about love and tolerance.

I'm sure my niece has many friends in her class...She's such an outgoing, sweet, and likable kid. I guess there's always got to be some kid that pushes our buttons at that age. I can't help thinking this might be one of those kids who really wants a friend, and has no idea how to cultivate a friendship. Maybe he just needs someone to care about him.

Thanks for your reply... :)

[Sabriel]

3. Document, document, document

Complain, notify, document every SINGLE time it happens. Lawsuits for this very same type of behavior have been settled all over the US. It's not funny, it's not appropriate, and it's not acceptable. It's harassment, plain and simple. It should NOT be tolerated, at any age.

Make sure there's a paper trail to the teacher and the principal each and every time, and make sure to mention "harassment" and "safe learning environment." If it doesn't get a response, go the a lawyer with the documentation. This can and should be stopped, for everyone's sake.

This from a former teacher and current worker in the education field.