Florence, Alabama — A mother is speaking out after her son, Kobe, was punished by Florence City Schools for what she says was an act of self-defense.
According to Kristan Brannon, her son spent 40 days in an alternative school after defending himself during a fight on the school bus.
“The principal said it was assault, and the boy didn’t get in no trouble,” Brannon said.
When Kobe finally returned, the school reportedly separated the two students, removing the other boy from Kobe’s classes and placing him at the front of the bus. “I guess they realized who was really the problem,” Brannon added.
Kristan’s Sons’ Sporting Dream on Hold
The incident cost Kobe his football season and a spot on the basketball team, a major setback for the student-athlete.
Despite that, Brannon says her son’s character and strength never wavered. “I’m so proud of my son for always being the great person he is and not letting what he been through with Florence City Schools define who he is. Momma gonna always have your back,” she wrote.
Other parents and community members echoed her frustration, calling out what they see as unfair treatment within the system.
“The system just keeps getting sadder and sadder,” said Jeannette Roberson.
“Florence full of shit,” wrote Pashion Jordan, who shared a similar experience involving her daughter. This is not the first time students faced setbacks in the School, according to Parents.
She also added, “They gave my girl 20 days of alternative school for defending herself, but claim she couldn’t do alternative school in Florence because she was out of district. She has been attending Florence city schools since kindergarten, but couldn’t participate in an alternative school in Florence. Shit just didn’t make any sense to me. I was upset about it, but God makes no mistakes. She’ is adjusting well at Muscle Shoals.”
Support for Kobe poured in from others who know him personally. “He’s a very respectful young man. This is bigger than sports,” said Felichia Wooden. “Show them he belongs on the team.”
For now, Kobe’s football dream is on hold, but his community believes it’s not over, and they hope he will be fully capable of playing football or basketball at another school.
