'Deeply Concerning': Sister Of Late Bullied Peabody Student Says Actions Still Do Not Match Talk

PEABODY, MA — Despite several programs and public events designed to create inclusion and prevent bullying across Peabody schools in the wake of an eighth-grade student's suicide following persistent bullying last year, the sister of Jason Bernard told the School Committee that actions in the district still do not match words when it comes to accountability and transparency of those responsible for bullying.

Cely Rosario said she and her family have been "very, very patient" in hopes that the district would become more proactive when it comes to identifying and punishing those who take part in bullying, but that school leadership has been too slow to act with urgency.

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"There remains a notable absence of decisive action, measurable progress and transparent accountability," she said on Tuesday night. "As a parent, and community member, it is deeply concerning to witness such critical issues on bullying continue to be discussed without stronger leadership, timelines, or a clear commitment to change.

"What makes this even more difficult is that my family has continued to navigate these bullying concerns while also grieving the devastating loss of my brother. Despite carrying that emotional burden, we have remained patient — very, very patient — respectful and engaged. Because we believe student safety, mental health, and anti-bullying with school culture deserve attention and meaningful action.

"However, patience should not be mistaken for silence, or acceptance of inaction."

School Committee Chair Beverley Griffin Dunne said later in the meeting that the district's Anti-Bullying Policy was still in subcommittee and should be ready to present to the full School Committee during its next meeting on June 9.

"Families should not have to continually advocate for environments where students feel safe, supported, and protected from their bullies," Rosario said. "Staff and leadership — that includes all of you — should be held accountable. Not only for responding to the bullying incidents, but for proactively creating systems that prevent harm, address behavioral concerns consistently, and support students before situations escalate."

Rosario called on the School Committee to recognize the "urgency" behind the ongoing bullying concerns and to "move beyond discussion, and discussion, and discussion, and move toward implementation" of a policy that carries specific discipline and consequences for those responsible for bullying and protections for those bullied.

She suggested it "might be time to explore new personnel with different cultural backgrounds" and staff with "a new set of fresh eyes" when looking at school culture.

"Most importantly, transparent communication with families in the community," she said. "This work matters because students matter. Their emotional safety, well-being and dignity cannot continue to be delayed behind process or procedure."

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