Rocky Mountain H.S. page stirs controversy

CREATED Oct. 3, 2012

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Several people called our newsroom about a Facebook page that bears the Rocky Mountain High School name and an image of the mascot.

Viewers who called say free speech is one thing - but this page crosses the line to cyber bullying.

The Facebook page is run by someone – probably a student – who won’t give his or her name.

"It started off a good thing - relatable to students, something you could laugh about with people you went to school with,” said Madeline Wright, Rocky Mountain High School graduate. “It's kind of strayed from that."

It’s full of memes – or images with captioning.

Some of the images use racist language. Others call people derogatory names about sexual orientation.

"You just have to be careful with that kind of thing,” said Rocky Mountain High School graduate Ashley Young. “That can really cause problems - not just like drama between students but it can really hurt someone down deep and make them afraid of being where they're at."

At times, the page targets specific teachers and students.

The School District says they can’t control the content of the page but have options for disciplinary actions.

"If students are being unkind to students in school and now those students have concerns and it spills into the education world - then there can be discipline actions taken against that kid,” said district spokesperson Eric Exline. “It falls under our harassment and bullying policy."

Students say the best way to stay away from the drama – and take a stand - is to stop following the page.

"Some people are not okay with it. It makes them feel unsafe,” said Wright. “In high school, no one needs that."