Overview

• Louis Johnson III, 11, died by suicide in April 2023 after enduring months of alleged bullying and public humiliation by his fifth-grade teacher, Donna White, according to a lawsuit filed by his parents.
• The lawsuit alleges that White repeatedly called Johnson 'stupid,' ridiculed him in front of classmates, and encouraged other students to join in the bullying, causing severe mental distress.
• Despite the parents' repeated reports to the Marion County School Board, the lawsuit claims no action was taken to address White's behavior before Johnson's death.
• A district investigation in July 2023 found White violated anti-harassment policies and caused psychological harm to students, leading to her suspension and the non-renewal of her contract.
• Johnson's parents are seeking $75,000 in damages and a jury trial, while the case raises broader concerns about institutional accountability, student mental health, and firearm safety.