A heartfelt plea for action against bullying and harassment in Boulder Valley School District's Angervine Middle School dominated the December 10 Board of Education meeting. Parent Jamal Gilmore addressed the board, detailing his son's struggles with bullying and alleged mistreatment by a teacher, highlighting systemic issues within the school environment.

Gilmore described how his son, who is neurodiverse, has faced ongoing harassment, including derogatory language, and has not received adequate support from school administration despite multiple reports. He emphasized the emotional toll this has taken on his son, who has already lost two years of schooling due to these challenges. "He can't go anywhere," Gilmore stated, urging the board and superintendent to intervene and provide the necessary support.

The board members expressed their gratitude for community participation and acknowledged the importance of addressing such serious concerns. They emphasized the need for inclusivity and support within the district, with several members reflecting on their recent attendance at the Colorado Association of School Boards (CASB) conference, where discussions on community engagement and student well-being were prominent.

As the meeting progressed, board members reiterated their commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all students. They acknowledged the challenges ahead and the importance of coming together as a community to address issues like bullying and systemic racism in schools. The board plans to discuss a resolution aimed at protecting families and fostering a more inclusive atmosphere in the district.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue and action to ensure that every student feels safe and valued in their educational environment. The board's next steps will be crucial in addressing the concerns raised by Gilmore and others, as they work towards creating a more supportive school culture.