LEWISVILLE - The case of Montana Lance, a nine-year-old boy who committed suicide at a North Texas school, is raising questions about school safety.
The boy hanged himself in the nurse's bathroom at Stewarts Creek Elementary in The Colony in January 2010.
He had a learning disability and a lisp. His parents have always blamed bullying for their son's death and believe the district failed to protect their son.
His family's lawyers gave News 8 documents that they say prove bullying was rampant in Montana's elementary school.
In deposition transcripts, the principal at the time of the child's death, Amy Teddy, told the family's attorneys that Montana was never bulled. Also, the legal team interviewed several parents and students. One child claims that Montana, a fourth grader, was bullied more than once a day and the harassment started in kindergarten or the first grade.
Brad Kultgen Brophy Bostwick Dickson & Squires LLP, the firm representing the family, released a statement.
Montana Lance was a victim of incessant bullying at Stewarts Creek Elementary School for half of his unnecessarily short life, the statement read. Our investigation has revealed that vulnerable students were frequently bullied, but school officials ignored the complaints of these children and their parents. This raises serious questions about the safety of all LISD students.
News 8 contacted Lewisville ISD for comment. A spokesperson sent us a statement.
During this time, the Lewisville Independent School District's thoughts are with the Lance family, as they have suffered a tremendous loss, said Karen Permetti from LISD's communication office. Due to pending litigation, the district is unable to comment on any questions related to this case.
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Complete Statements
From Lewisville ISD:
During this time, the Lewisville Independent School District s thoughts are with the Lance family as they have suffered a tremendous loss. Due to pending litigation, the district is unable to comment on any questions related to this case.
From the Lance family attorneys:
Montana Lance was a victim of incessant bullying at Stewarts Creek Elementary School for half of his unnecessarily short life. Our investigation has revealed that vulnerable students were frequently bullied, but school officials ignored the complaints of these children and their parents. This raises serious concerns about the safety of all LISD students. Courageous witnesses have begun to come forward, and we hope others will follow in their footsteps.
BEARD KULTGEN BROPHY BOSTWICK DICKSON & SQUIRES, LLP
