Spencer students allegedly told to list bullies

SPENCER, Mass. -- A Bay State middle school is accused of targeting bullies in an attempt to prevent problems.

Officials at the Wire Village School in Spencer allegedly created a “bully list.”

“The teachers had asked the sixth-grade students to sit down and write down names on a list of anybody who has been bullied or teased. Apparently, my son ranked in the top of the class,” said Danielle Gebo.

Tom Gebo, 11, and five other sixth-graders ended up on the alleged list.

He admitted to bullying other kids before but says he has paid a price over the past few days.

“I had to stay in for two weeks -- morning recess, lunch recess. I had to report to a teacher after I did anything. If I went to the bathroom, I’d have to report to my homeroom teacher,” he said.

The student said he felt like he is now being bullied and harassed.

“I know how it feels now... I think bullying is a bad thing and being bullied is an even badder thing,” he said.

Danielle Gebo went straight to the superintendant.

“I was disappointed that it was handled the way that it was, and I immediately took steps to correct it. I called the principal yesterday afternoon and informed her this was to cease and desist,” said Dr. Ralph Hicks, school superintendant.

The superintendant said school officials overacted to the alleged Phoebe Prince case.

“I want to see the teachers who are involved with this be disciplined,” said Danielle Gebo, who added that she would like to see the principal fired.

Dr. Hick would not comment on whether any individuals would be disciplined but said the incident is under investigation.

“The matter is going to be handled appropriately,” he added.

Dr. Hicks said his new anti-bullying policy will soon be presented to the school committee. The policy includes training for school officials and discipline guidelines for alleged bullies but does not contain any form of bully list, according to the superintendant.

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