Youth Peace & Justice Foundation Calls For Bullying Review & Increased Student Services After 12 Year Old Georgia Girls Suicide
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
National Child Advocacy Organization Calls for State Board Of Education Review Following Death of Georgia Student and Allegations of Bullying
Full Story Here
BYRON, Ga. — The Uvalde Foundation for Kids, also known as the Youth Peace _ Justice Foundation, a national student advocacy nonprofit, is calling for increased attention & a state board of education review of bullying prevention and student mental health intervention policies at Byron Middle School and the district itself, following the death of 12-year-old Ava Little of Byron, Georgia.
According to public reporting and local officials, the sixth-grade student at Byron Middle School died on February 25. Family members have stated publicly that Ava had been subjected to bullying prior to her death and have since begun advocating for greater awareness around bullying and youth mental health.
Following Ava’s passing, relatives and community members organized an anti-bullying march outside a local church in Byron to raise awareness and encourage compassion among young people.
In statements to local media, family members described Ava as a child known for her kindness and vibrant spirit, remembering her as someone who frequently offered encouragement and compliments to others.
The Foundation says the tragedy highlights the ongoing need for stronger anti-bullying initiatives and greater support for student mental health in schools across the country.
“Any time a child is lost, communities are left asking whether more could have been done,” said Daniel Chapin, founder of the Foundation. “Allegations of bullying in cases like this underscore the importance of ensuring that students feel safe, supported, and heard within their schools.”
The Foundation noted that families and community members have used Ava’s story to raise awareness about the impact bullying can have on children and adolescents. The foundation also noted that additional families have come forward with bullying and safety concerns for their children since the incident.
In response to outreach from families and in alignment with its national mission, The Uvalde Foundation for Kids is organizing a Community Engagement Forum on Bullying Prevention and Youth Mental Health.
The forum will provide:
* A safe space for parents and students to share concerns
* Mental health professionals to discuss warning signs and intervention tools
* Information about crisis resources and prevention strategies
* An opportunity for school and district representatives to engage constructively with families
Details regarding the date and location will be announced shortly.
The Peach County School District has stated publicly that the community is grieving the loss of the student and that counseling and support services are being made available for students and staff.
The district also stated it continues to review its policies and procedures to strengthen student safety and ensure that bullying concerns are addressed through established protocols.
The Foundation says it supports efforts by families and community members to raise awareness about bullying and mental health challenges affecting youth.
“Every community deserves open conversations about bullying prevention and student wellbeing,” Chapin said. “By bringing these issues into the light, families can help ensure that future students receive the support and protection they need.”
The organization also reiterated the importance of mental health resources for young people and encouraged families and schools to promote accessible support systems for students experiencing bullying or emotional distress.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges or emotional distress, support is available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
About the Youth Peace & Justice Foundation
The Youth Peace & Justice Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to ending cycles of violence by empowering young leaders to advocate for systemic change and community healing. Through political education and focused civic engagement, the Foundation prepares youth to transform their neighborhoods into places of justice, opportunity and peace.
Youth Peace & Justice Foundation
Uvalde Foundation For Kids
254-499-8027
Charity ID 88-3268749
theuvaldefoundation.com
