That's why you're so awesome, d, and why your boys are awesome and will be incredible men some day soon! I know you're proud of them!

I wonder about a particular point in this story:

The mom said she was going to a PTO meeting that night to "get to the bottom" of the bullying situation at her son's school. She'd been a very active member, involved in all sorts of projects, well known by teachers and administrators, being her son's champion at school and at home. Really, from the outside looking in, she was doing everything right. Still, somewhere along the line, a weak link in the chain broke and a there was a terrible tragedy.

There have been many posts on these forums about the PTO's role and many believe that this falls outside of a group's particular role in the community. But I have to wonder if that's really true. Time and time again, parents say they're "going to a PTO/A meeting to" get to the bottom of something.

Is there some sort of expanded role a PTO/A can play in helping parents bridge the very important gap between school and home?

What a terrible tragedy. One that we are all could face unknowingly. I preach and preach kindness to my children; the uniqueness of each person and what they have to bring to the world and I preach the strength we have as a family to stand above any sort of negativity they might face. My children are not in this alone and I let them know that every single day.

I also let them know that I won't tolerate them exhibiting any sort of discourteous behavior to others, and that they have the right to say "Stop". I must say that my oldest came home the other day and told me one of our nieghborhood children was getting picked on for being a bit different. It's 6th grade and "different" in 6th grade doesn't stand well. When I asked my son what he did, he said he stood beside the boy from our neighborhood and told the others to knock it off. When they picked on that young man, they were picking on him as well. I was incredibly proud of my 12 year old that day. He has since received his share of comments from folks that didn't appreciate his coming forward...but he's okay.

I can only pray that we fortify our children daily to be strong when others can not do more than find their own self worth in others perceived weaknesses.

d

Video Gallery - The Ellen DeGeneres Show

This is a segment from Ellen about an 11 year old Springfield, Mass child who recently committed suicide due, his mother believes, to being bullied. She mentioned her role at the school and in the PTO.

Take a look and share any comments you might have.