Seventh and eighth graders in Lynbrook North and South middle schools gathered to hear a powerful story on the potentially dangerous repercussions of cyberbullying on Jan. 9.
Students listened attentively to a presentation by John Halligan, who shared the story of his son, Ryan, a middle schooler who died by suicide after facing bullying through social media. Mr. Halligan’s moving story was a direct reminder that bullying has profound effects on victims and their families. He urged the young audience to reach out when in need of help and to always stand up against bullying, rather than be a bystander. The same evening, Mr. Halligan returned to give a similar presentation to parents of students in grades three through eight.
“One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to not ask for help,” Mr. Halligan told students. “I cannot say this enough – you are loved beyond belief.”
1) John Halligan, who lost his son, Ryan, to suicide, visited Lynbrook South Middle School on Jan. 9 to speak with students.
Photos courtesy Lynbrook Public Schools