Jocelynn Rojo Carranza, 11, took her own life on February 8 after being bullied over her family’s immigration status. Her mother, Marbella Carranza, said classmates mocked her and threatened to call ICE, telling her, “They said they were going to call immigration to take her parents away, leaving her all alone.”

School’s Role Under Scrutiny

Carranza claimed the school knew about the bullying but never informed her. “She would go once or twice a week to counseling to report what was happening,” she said. Gainesville Independent School District did not confirm awareness of Jocelynn’s case but stated, “Whenever we receive a report of bullying, we respond swiftly to ensure all students are safe.”

Community in Mourning

Jocelynn was found unresponsive on February 3 and passed away five days later. She was laid to rest in the church where she was baptized. Deacon Gelasio Garcia said, “She didn’t know how to understand the things that happen in the world.”

A Plea for Kindness

The Boys & Girls Club of Cooke County honored Jocelynn, saying, “Her story is a reminder to always be kind because you never know what someone is going through.” Her mother demands justice, stating, “The school was negligent for not keeping me informed.”