Memphis, TN, October 26, 2025
News Summary
Memphis leaders express alarm over the sharp decline in student attendance at essential anti-bullying and suicide prevention events, attributed to a new law requiring parental permission slips. With participation falling by two-thirds compared to last year, school officials and community organizations are working to address barriers that prevent student involvement in critical education regarding bullying and mental health. The tragic suicide of a local student has further amplified concerns about the need for effective prevention strategies in schools.
Memphis leaders are increasingly concerned the number of students attending crucial anti-bullying and suicide prevention events is dropping sharply due to a new law requiring parent permission slips. Reports indicate that attendance at these vital training sessions has seen a significant decline, with participation plummeting by two-thirds compared to last year.
This decline is attributed directly to a new state law that will come into full effect in 2024, mandating that parental permission slips be secured for student participation in such events. The law has raised barriers for many families, hindering students from engaging in opportunities designed to tackle pressing issues like bullying and mental health awareness.
Donna Goings, the Mental Health Director of Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), has brought attention to this ongoing issue, emphasizing the importance of student involvement in these programs. The events aim to provide education and resources to help students confront challenges related to bullying and mental health, both of which have shown to have widespread impacts on adolescent well-being.
One organization actively working on these matters is UCAN of Memphis, a youth mentorship program that is dedicated to promoting leadership skills and preventing bullying. UCAN has successfully reached around 7,000 teachers, students, and parents, highlighting the strong community interest in addressing these critical issues.
Nationwide statistics reveal that approximately one in five high school students experiences bullying, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This alarming prevalence underscores the urgency surrounding the need for effective prevention measures and support systems in schools.
The article shares the personal story of LeShaundra Robinson, who became a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and bullying prevention after her brother’s suicide. Her experiences with bullying fueled her commitment to promoting mental health support and preventing tragedies that result from mental health crises.
A particularly tragic case that has resonated with the Memphis community involves 14-year-old student Alexcia Smith, who took her own life after facing relentless bullying at Riverview K-8 School. This incident led to public protests demanding accountability and better responses from school officials. Critics cite a pattern of inadequate action taken by school authorities, as Alexcia’s mother had previously raised multiple concerns about her daughter’s bullying with school administrators.
Alexcia’s peers have also reported instances of physical and verbal harassment against her, painting a troubling picture of an environment where students feel unsafe. In response to these ongoing concerns, Shelby County Schools has stated that they take all reports of bullying seriously and that they conduct comprehensive investigations into any claims made.
As the implementation of the new state law approaches, community leaders and school officials are left grappling with how to encourage parental engagement in these essential anti-bullying and mental health initiatives while safeguarding students’ emotional and psychological well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is student attendance at anti-bullying and suicide prevention events dropping?
Attendance at suicide and bullying prevention trainings has decreased by two-thirds last year. The drop in attendance is linked to a new state law set to be enforced in 2024, mandating parental permission slips for participation.
What is UCAN of Memphis?
UCAN of Memphis is a youth mentorship program that focuses on leadership and bullying prevention. They have reached approximately 7,000 teachers, students, and parents.
How prevalent is bullying among high school students in the U.S.?
National statistics indicate that one in five high school students experiences bullying, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Key Features of the Report
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Student Attendance Drop | Attendance at anti-bullying and suicide prevention trainings has decreased by two-thirds due to new state law requiring parental permission slips. |
| State Law Enforcement Year | 2024 |
| Community Engagement | UCAN of Memphis has reached approximately 7,000 individuals through anti-bullying and leadership initiatives. |
| National Bullying Statistics | One in five high school students experiences bullying, highlighting the need for preventative measures. |
| Tragic Case | Alexcia Smith, a 14-year-old student, took her life after experiencing bullying, leading to community reaction and demands for accountability. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Memphis Leaders Concerned About Anti-Bullying Event Attendance
- Local Memphis: UCAN Memphis and their Anti-Bullying Efforts
- Action News 5: Loved Ones Demand Answers after Bullying Death
- Wikipedia: Bullying
- Fox 13 Memphis: Family Claims Bullying Led to Teen Suicide
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Suicide
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
