Parents connected to Las Plumas High School in Oroville are facing renewed concerns about bullying after a local parent said her freshman child came home upset after being targeted with cruel comments from other students.
Rebecca Melton shared her concerns in the Oroville Rants and Raves Facebook group, saying her freshman had been told by girls that he was fat and should kill himself. Melton questioned how parents could allow their children to speak to another student in such a hurtful way.
Her post quickly drew responses from other community members, including parents who described their own experiences with bullying at school.
Parents Share Similar Experiences With Bullying
One commenter, Terry Denis, said her son had recently been suspended after defending himself against what she described as upperclassmen who were bullying him. She encouraged parents to speak positively to their children and help them become involved in activities that can build confidence.
Another commenter pushed back against remarks about the student’s weight. Cheala Marie said there can be medical reasons that make it difficult for some people to control their weight, even when they maintain a healthy diet. She said no child should have to worry about being told to kill themselves while attending school.
Several people focused on the role parents can play in addressing behavior. Katherine Walker suggested that parents should identify which students were involved and address the matter directly with their families.
Other commenters shared personal stories about being bullied when they were younger. One person recalled being targeted in middle school because of their Hmong background, while another described being called a loser and a waste of space and being told to end their life during high school.
Community Calls for More Compassion
The discussion also highlighted differing views about how parents should respond when children behave badly. One commenter noted that even caring and respectful parents cannot always control every decision their children make. Children can be influenced by peers and other factors as they grow, the commenter said, while still emphasizing that hurtful behavior should not be accepted.
Another person said bullying has existed for generations but argued that this does not make it acceptable. The commenter encouraged the student to find activities where he can develop confidence and feel successful.
Some responses offered sympathy to the family and reminded the student that cruel comments do not define who he is.
The Facebook discussion reflects a broader concern among community members about the way students treat one another. While the comments do not establish what disciplinary action, if any, has been taken at Las Plumas High School, the conversation shows that several local residents view bullying and threats involving self harm as serious issues.
For the family involved, the immediate concern appears to be making sure the student feels supported and understands that the hurtful words directed at him do not determine his worth. Parents in the discussion also called for greater accountability, communication and compassion among students and families.
