In a heart-wrenching incident that has left a Texas community in mourning, 11-year-old Jocelynn Rojo Carranza tragically took her own life after enduring relentless bullying related to her family’s immigration status.

Jocelynn, a vibrant sixth-grader at Gainesville Intermediate School, was known for her love of dancing, singing, and making TikTok videos. She also played the French horn in the school band and cherished Friday movie nights with her family.

According to her mother, Marbella Carranza, Jocelynn faced continuous harassment from classmates who threatened to report her family to immigration authorities, instilling a deep-seated fear of separation and deportation.

Despite seeking counseling at school, Marbella was unaware of the severity of the bullying until it was too late. On February 3, Jocelynn was found unresponsive at home and, after five days in intensive care, passed away on February 8. Marbella expressed her profound grief, stating, “I waited a whole week for a miracle that my daughter would be well, but unfortunately, nothing could be done.”

The Gainesville Independent School District has stated that it enforces strict anti-bullying policies and responds swiftly to any reports. However, the district has not confirmed whether it was aware of the specific incidents involving Jocelynn. In a statement, the district emphasized its commitment to student safety, noting, “Whenever we receive a report of bullying, we respond swiftly to ensure all students are safe physically and emotionally.”

Jocelynn’s tragic death has sparked a broader conversation about the impact of immigration-related bullying and the responsibilities of educational institutions to protect vulnerable students. Advocates stress the urgent need for comprehensive anti-bullying programs that address the unique challenges faced by children from immigrant families.

As the community grieves, a GoFundMe page has been established to assist the Carranza family with funeral expenses and to support Jocelynn’s six siblings. The page has seen an outpouring of support, raising nearly $23,000.

This devastating event serves as a poignant reminder of the profound consequences of bullying and the critical importance of fostering inclusive and supportive environments for all students, regardless of their background.