Gainesville, Texas, is grieving after 11-year-old Jocelynn Rojo Carranza died by suicide on February 8. Her mother says Jocelynn was bullied at school, with classmates making hurtful comments about her family’s immigration status and saying her parents could be taken away.
Despite Jocelynn seeing the school counselor often, her mother says the school never told her about the bullying. The school district said it takes bullying seriously but didn’t confirm if they knew about Jocelynn’s situation, due to privacy rules.
Jocelynn was buried on February 14, with heartbroken family and friends gathered to say goodbye. She was remembered as a happy, caring girl who loved dancing, watching movies, and spending time with her loved ones.
Her death has led to demands for better anti-bullying efforts in schools. One person from the community said, “She didn’t deserve this. Bullying must end.”