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Parents fed up with bullying in Charlotte schools

Posted at 10:16 PM, Nov 16, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-16 22:16:17-05

A group of Charlotte County parents say their kids are no longer safe in school.

The parents took to social media to start a petition that would put metal detectors in schools, mandate students wear clear backpacks and crack down on bullying.

As of Friday night 180 parents signed it, including Lori James, whose 8th grader was nearly jumped across the street from Port Charlotte Middle School.

“I get a phone call from my husband, a text message from a friend, get here now, there’s about to be a fight, there’s 6 or 7 girls surrounding your child.”

That was three weeks ago, and her daughter is still traumatized about the incident.

“I’m very afraid for my child, and that’s why we’re here today.  I’m afraid something is going to happen to her,” said James.

Other parents say they signed onto the petition after a threat was made to Port Charlotte High School.

“There should be no reason why any child should fear going to school, riding the bus, nor should a parent fear something is going to happen to their child,” said Parent Carolina Russell.

"The safety and security of our students and staff are our paramount concern,” Charlotte Schools Spokesperson Mike Riley said in a statement to 4-In-Your-Corner.   

“We have a licensed, uniformed, gun carrying law enforcement officer in everyone of our schools.  We have had 9 major threats to our schools this year.  We have responded immediately to each and every one working with law enforcement.”

Russell, whose son was attacked at the Murdock Middle School gym and on a school bus says she wants to know that if her son is bullied again, something is going to be done about it.

“We have no idea, we are in the dark.  Well, it’s time to let the light in.”

School officials say they've considered clear backpacks in the past but say the bags won't completely prevent someone from bringing contraband into a school.