March 20, 2024

Here at TeenTalk, we were devastated to learn about what happened to a teen in Oklahoma recently. Nex Benedict was at school when they were attacked by three students. Nex died the next day from their injuries. We want our community to know that:

• We are here for people who are struggling to process what happened to Nex. We are a safe space to talk about what happened and what you are feeling.
• When something like this happens, it is essential that we are not silent. Silence might cause others to feel alone in their sadness, anger or loneliness.
• Violence is absolutely not acceptable. Nex, like everyone, deserved to be able to be safe at school.
• If you feel unsafe, afraid, or lonely, you deserve a better situation. While we work on making a better society, we are here to listen without judgment.

Call us at 360.397.2428
Text us at 360.984.0936
Message us on Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat @PeppyPenerson
Email us [email protected]
Post an anonymous message on our online message board at ccteentalk.clark.wa.gov/ask-peppy

School has brought a huge amount of changes since COVID began. Some people don't like school in general, but it is so different without the social interaction. You don't know how much you're used to physically being in a classroom and asking for help until you no longer have that option. School online requires so much self-discipline and focus. Although this is a hypothetical message, struggling with school and online learning because of COVID is something we believe most people can understand. If you want to talk to us about what's going on with school (or anything else) feel free to message or call us.