A Huffman ISD mother says she never knew her 15-year-old son may have been struggling with bullying before he took his own life.
Now, as parents and students in the community speak out, mental health experts are warning families to pay attention to signs that children may be suffering in silence.
KPRC 2 spoke exclusively with the family of 15-year-old Ryan Maziol, described by loved ones as a kind teen who loved coding, video games, and gardening.
Ryan’s mother says her son was autistic and attended multiple meetings with school officials regarding his educational progress. However, she says no one from the school or district ever raised concerns about possible bullying.
Parents in the Huffman ISD community told KPRC 2 they believe the district does not consistently notify families when bullying concerns are reported.
Under Texas law, school districts are required to have procedures for reporting, investigating, and responding to bullying complaints. The Texas Education Agency told KPRC 2 that districts are also required to notify parents after bullying reports are made.
Ryan’s mother says she never received a call from the district about any alleged bullying involving her son.
KPRC 2 also spoke with one of Ryan’s friends, who claims Ryan told teachers about bullying, but said nothing ever changed.
Family members say Ryan often tried to handle problems on his own.
His sister, Ashley Maziol, told KPRC 2 she was the one who found her younger brother after he took his life.
The family says they did not learn about possible bullying concerns until after Ryan’s death.
In a statement to KPRC 2, Huffman Independent School District said it is reviewing what it described as “unverified reports” that bullying may have contributed to the student’s death.
KPRC 2 also spoke with a behavioral health expert from Memorial Hermann Health System, who said children often show warning signs long before they openly talk about emotional distress.
Mental health experts say warning signs can include:
- Withdrawal from friends or activities
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Increased anxiety or sadness
- Declining school performance
- Talking about hopelessness or isolation
Later Tuesday morning, parents and community members plan to protest outside the Huffman ISD administration building.
They say they want more transparency from the district and stronger action when students report bullying.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free and confidential support 24 hours a day.