Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in September 2018.

In a bold move, a Texas mom, known as Star, has taken a stand against her child’s disruptive behavior in class. Teachers reported that her son was using derogatory language like “idiots” and “stupid” towards classmates, prompting Star to address the issue in a way that has ignited a firestorm of online controversy.

Describing herself as an “old-school parent” with a commitment to strong morals, Star chose a method some might find unconventional: public shaming. Unfazed by the significant backlash she’s received, she stands by her decision, emphasizing her refusal to coddle her children or sugar-coat the realities of the world.

The saga unfolded on Facebook, where Star posted a photo of her child donning a shirt boldly proclaiming, “I am a Bully,” just before heading to Splendour Independent School District primary school. However, the post quickly became a battleground of opposing opinions, and Star ultimately removed it due to the influx of negative comments.

Star clarified that her intention was not to humiliate her child but rather to reach out to the parents of the kids her son may have affected. She sought to facilitate personal apologies from her son to those he may have bullied. According to Star, her son grasped a vital lesson, expressing, “I learned that I didn’t like the way that that felt, and I don’t want anybody else to feel that way because of me.”

While Star’s approach has garnered criticism, Dr. Richard Pesikoff, a child psychiatrist at Baylor College of Medicine, acknowledged her concerns but disagreed with the chosen method. He cautioned against embarrassing a child to the point of solidifying a negative identity, recommending alternative resources for assistance.

Surprisingly, the teachers at Splendora Independent School District supported Star’s decision. A spokesperson emphasized parents’ rights to make important decisions on behalf of their children and detailed the extensive discussions that took place between the parent, counselor, and student with all three teachers. The district asserted its commitment to providing a safe, supportive environment as one of its core principles.

Despite the school’s plans for follow-up discussions, Star remains steadfast in her belief that further intervention is unnecessary. She contends that her son has already exhibited positive changes in behavior, treating his siblings and cousins better, ultimately emphasizing the crucial lesson learned from the experience.

As the debate rages on, the incident raises broader questions about parental rights, discipline methods, and the delicate balance between accountability and potential psychological consequences in shaping a child’s character.

Sources: Daily Star