Bullies in athletics aren’t just students

In regard to the recent stories regarding hazing in athletics and bullies in general, I'd like to bring attention to a situation that happens often but when people speak up, nothing happens.

There is a well-known coach in the Cedar Rapids school district who often uses foul language and degrading comments to students involved in physical education programs and sports activities. Various parents have gone to the school administration, to no avail. When educators, who are people our children are supposed to trust, cannot be civil, kind, encouraging and supportive, then what purpose does that educator serve?

I was under the impression that all teachers are mandatory reporters of verbal and physical abuse. But will they tell on themselves? It's too bad the administration doesn't take these types of complaints seriously. The superintendent of schools and school boards need to get involved. Bullies are not just kids.

Barbara Schrafel

Cedar Rapids