McKinney student who made Facebook threat was bullied

http://www.wfaa.com/news/crime/Juvenile-taken-into-custody-after-threat-on-posted-on-Facebook-175412811.html

McKinney, Texas is just North of Dallas.  Unlike my previous story, this time there are facts that this student was often a victim of bullying and harassment.  Reports are that he was also autistic.  While many people may believe that he was merely posting threats on a social network, what set his threats apart and required the action from the police were the specifics about his threats.  As with suicidal ideations, when kids have specific plans, this time down to numbered steps, plans of actions need to be taken.  These cannot be chalked up as "kids being kids."

While the McKinney Police Department should be applauded for taking the appropriate measures, my concern lies with the McKinney schools.  The news story states,

"McKinney Boyd Principal Rick McDaniel posted a message acknowledging the "threatening statements" Tuesday morning on McKinney Boyd's Facebook page, and said "such comments [...] will not be tolerated and the District will prosecute to the fullest extent that the law allows." The post was removed as of 4:30 p.m. Tuesday."

I checked the Facebook page, there is no evidence of the post as stated.  While threats to the school should not be taken lightly, the harassment and bullying of an autistic student which would lead to him to these events should also not be taken lightly.  At least somebody understands that,

 "The boy's classmates said it's a shame it came to this, and it should serve as a wake up call to the community."

Ethan Empey suicide hanging Frisco Griffin Middle

Ethan Empey suicide hanging Frisco Griffin Middle - Dallas News | myFOXdfw.com

Yet another young boy takes his life by hanging himself.  A 12 year old boy hung himself in his home. As with a previous story, this child was an athlete as well.  What was going on in this child's life that made him make this ultimate choice?

Also this week in North Texas,

• 2 students from Coppell High School were killed in seperate incidents. A very popular football player was cliff diving at a local lake and did not surface after a jump.  His body has still not been found.  Several days later another senior at the school took his own life.
• It's been found that a student at Creekview HS in Carrollton, Texas died from a cheese heroin overdose.  His friend admitted the use to his mother after she was dumbfounded of his death. He too was a popular athlete. 

What is going on with our children?  Sports and athletics used to be an outlet for many.  Now it is often an avenue for drugs and for bullying.  Parents and schools need to be aware of so many more threats to their children and students. 

Teen nearly overdosed because of bullies

Teen nearly overdosed because of bullies, mom says - Dallas News | myFOXdfw.com

Not only happens with small kids. This time a sophmore in high school took up to 9 pills in the cafeteria.

This mother was aware of the drop in grades and her son prying his braces off?  When was action taken?