A 13-year-old boy named Lenny, who has autism, faces severe bullying at his school in Caluire-et-Cuire, Rhône, leaving him terrified and traumatized. According to reports from Progrès, Lenny is regularly mocked by his classmates and has even been subjected to physical assaults.
Since starting at Lassagne college for the current school year in 2023, Lenny's situation has worsened. He shared, "I am stressed when I have to go to college. I am a little afraid they will hurt me again." This fear is compounded by an incident where he was locked in a toilet, revealing the extent of the harassment he endures.
In an even more troubling turn, Lenny has been hit twice by classmates playing a violent game known as "virgule." This game, as explained by his father, involves striking someone behind the neck to make their head rotate. The result of such violence forced Lenny to wear a neck brace for a week after sustaining injuries. His father commented on the ridiculousness of this cruel game, stating, "It's a stupid game that involves giving a blow behind the neck to make it rotate." Lenny's family demands swift action against those who harass him, leading them to file a complaint against unknown individuals.
There is a growing concern among educators regarding the scope of this situation. Véronique Montangerand, an inspector with the Education Nationale, indicated, "We are more likely to be dealing with school harassment rather than inclusion issues per se." She recommended that Lenny's parents approach the regional academic harassment cell to ensure their case gets the attention it needs. This acknowledgment speaks to a systemic issue, where the rapid assessment and response to bullying cases are critical in protecting vulnerable students.
The matter of school bullying, particularly against children with special needs, is an issue that resonates on a national level. The definition of school harassment is clear according to the education ministry's guidelines. The site states, "The act of bullying repeatedly inflicted by one or a group of students on a peer constitutes school harassment." This awful reality strikes at the heart of a student's dignity and creates a hostile environment that can have far-reaching implications for mental health and education.
For families affected by bullying, resources have been established to provide help. A free and anonymous hotline, 3018, has been set up for victims and their families to reach out and receive support. Such initiatives aim to tackle school harassment head-on, offering hope to those enduring similar torment as Lenny.
Lenny's case sheds light not only on his struggles but also emphasizes the urgent need for effective strategies in schools to combat bullying. As conversations continue about the responsibilities of educational institutions, there lies a crucial opportunity for education policymakers and school administrators to step up. They must ensure that schools not only promote inclusion but also actively protect those at risk of bullying.
Only through comprehensive measures can schools foster environments where every student feels safe and valued. The need for reform is evident, and Lenny's plight should act as a catalyst for change, urging the broader community to reevaluate how they address bullying and support children like him.
Ultimately, Lenny's experience is a call for action. It is a stark reminder that every child deserves a safe learning environment, free from the fear of harm inflicted by their peers. As the dialogue gains momentum, it is incumbent upon society to work collaboratively to address bullying, ensuring that no child ever has to suffer in silence.
