Dear Ellenville Junior/Senior High Families,
Ellenville Junior/Senior High School is committed to taking proactive steps to curb a problem that is found in schools everywhere: bullying and cyberbullying. In support of this, our school has sponsored Mr. John Halligan, an international speaker and author to conduct a presentation for our students. He will relay his own tragic experience as a parent whose 13-year-old son took his own life in 2003 after experiencing bullying from his peers since the 5th grade both in school and online. Mr. Halligan further shares that Ryan wrestled with underlying mental health issues and depression and these factors contributed to Ryan’s vulnerability and ultimate suicide. His story is riveting and compelling and reminds students that there is a face, a person, and a heart on the other end of the screen.
His presentation on November 20, 2023, will begin with a short video collection of home movie clips and still pictures of Ryan. Mr. Halligan will then tell the story of Ryan’s life and the factors that led up to his son’s suicide. The students will gain a perspective from inside the family of a child who is a victim of bullying and cyberbullying. In the wrap-up session, they will receive life-changing lessons about forgiveness, suicide prevention, the role of bystanders, and a challenge to apologize to someone. We encourage you to visit a website named for his son www.RyansStory.org for more information.
We encourage you to ask your child about the presentation and discuss it together. Our Support Services Staff will be available throughout the assembly and after for any students who need additional support.
We would also like to invite you to attend our parent / guardian event with Mr. John Halligan who will be delivering a similar message specifically for you as a parent or guardian. This event will be held in the Senior High Media Center immediately after our parent teacher conferences at 7:00 pm on November 20th. We hope to see you there!
Sincerely,
Jr/Sr High School Administrative Team