John Halligan, who lost his son in 2003 to suicide due to school bullying, spoke with parents and students at Sagamore Middle School earlier this month.
In memory of his son and in just a few months after Ryan’s death, Mr. Halligan spearheaded the Vermont Bullying Prevention law in 2004. He also led the passing of a law in 2006 pertaining to suicide prevention education in public schools .
Mr. Halligan has been outspoken about the need for more education and prevention of bullying, cyber bullying and teen suicide throughout the United States, Canada and Latin America. He and his wife Kelly have appeared on several national TV programs including Primetime with Diane Sawyer, PBS Frontline and Oprah.
“Throughout both you could have heard a pin drop,” said Sagamore Principal Patti Trombetta. “At the end of each there were tears and quiet conversations as they left the auditorium.”
Children had the opportunity to ask questions and they were really thought provoking questions. In both sessions they inquired about Ryan’s siblings and how they are coping with their lose. They also asked about what they should do if they see someone being bullied. They wondered about the bully in the story and inquired about him learning from this situation.
During the second assembly a student stood up and thanked Mr. Halligan for sharing his story and helping them become better people from hearing it.
“It was really impressive to watch the response and respect that was given to Mr. Halligan,” Trombetta said. “It was certainly a worthwhile assembly that touched many. Our hope is it makes at least one child stop before bullying someone else. I really believe that many students will be talking about the presentation and hopefully approach things differently.”