More Than Words: Part One

1 min read

For our first segment of More Than Words, we met with Television Communications and Production teacher John Giambruno and an M-A student who requested anonymity.

You probably know Giambruno as the amicable, easy-going producer of “M-A Today.” What you might not know is that he is also a survivor of bullying.

Raised in San Mateo, California, Giambruno was first bullied in middle school, after news that his older brother was gay spread throughout his neighborhood. The physical bullying became so extreme that he had a knife brandished in his face several times at school.

During the interview, Giambruno’s eyes welled up with tears as he described the incidents; “I didn’t think this was gonna happen,” he told us. In retelling his experience it was clear, that events from years ago, still cause Giambruno pain, and that bullying often affects people more than words can say.

 

“[M-A] is a really long way from home, but it’s worth it,” said the student in our next interview.  She wanted to get away.

Far away from the insults and abuse.

Far away from being hit with a bat and pushed in the hallways.

From being locked in the bathroom and forgotten for so long that it was only when the principal noticed her on the school cameras that the door was unlocked.

Her voice has been edited to protect her anonymity.

I'm Emily Brumley, and I am a senior here at M-A. I enjoy playing guitar, tennis, and creative writing. I also love dogs and have two of my own. This is my first year writing for the Chronicle. I was inspired to join this class by my love for writing and the wonderful stories I read last year. I am looking forward to a great year!

Mara Cavallaro is a senior and aspiring journalist. Her struggle to understand and tell her own story has taught her the importance of sharing narratives and inspiring empathy among readers. She strives to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and is most proud of her articles Full Time: Full Mile: Why We Need a Buffer Zone Around Our Schools (on the noxious effects of pesticides in rural California communities) and “Strength in Diversity”: Where M-A Falls Short (on challenges to full inclusion at M-A).

My name is Martha McGee. I am a senior and new to the M-A Chronicle. I enjoy reading and sharing opinions as well as getting to know different members of our community better. In my free time, I enjoy spending time in the outdoors with my family and friends. I am also passionate about music, and play violin for the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra.

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