Video of a school fight in Brockton led to increased police presence at six middle schools in the city
Six Brockton middle schools, including South Middle School, will now have police officers outside the front doors around dismissal after cell phone video of a 13-year-old student being beaten and dragged by her hair went viral.
The video, taken Monday, has been seen more than 30,000 times and shared more than 500 times.
The altercation occurred when Hannah Kenney-Blaisdell left after-school care, where she receives additional assistance with her studies.
Hannah told NBC Boston she had a feeling something could happen after a Snapchat confrontation escalated.
"I saw a big group talking about me, pointing at me. I was waiting for my dad," she said. "Everything went in slow motion, I guess. They were stomping on my face. I didn't feel anything."
While emotionally draining to watch, Hannah's mother shared the video on Facebook Tuesday.
"I was so angry. Why for my daughter?" Kris Kenney asked. "Every time I closed my eyes, I cried. My hope was that something would be done and the city would wake up a little bit and realize there needs to be more supervision."
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Other parents with children who attend South Middle School said they're happy with the decision to provide a regular police presence.
Hannah said children who are bullied should stand up for themselves through the tough times they face.
"If you feel like you're going to go home, look in the mirror and say, 'I'm worthless' - don't. You are strong. You are beautiful."