Bullied teen elected homecoming princess

Rachel Sampson, a 14 year-old freshman at Poway High School in California didn’t let the bullies get the best of her. As a cruel joke, a few students placed her name on the ballot for this year’s homecoming princess. Rachel, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, saw it as an opportunity to teach others that this illness is not a barrier to success. The bullies meant to ridicule her but Rachel succeeded in gathering enough support to win the election. In September, 2011, she was crowned Freshman Homecoming Princess.

Congratulations, Rachel. You’re a great example to all victims of bullying on how to handle taunts and mean-spirited messages. Their issues are more serious than what you’ve learned to live with. We wish you the best throughout your high school and college years.

We also commend Rachel’s friends and supporters for standing up against bullying. A few of the posts on Facebook speak for themselves:

Elizabeth Caviness: I think that rather than make the bullies the focus of attention we should should make Rachel feel honored for being nominated. Poway has the amazing opportunity to make a statement on two fronts: 1. Bullying is wrong and we will not stand …for it and 2. Special Ed youths deserve respect, recognition and honor just like any other student and allowing Rachel’s name to stay on the ballot, and perhaps even win the election would be powerful indeed! Vote for Rachel!

Cathy Klein: Where does the buck stop? Who is responsible and what is being done? Rachael Sampson is a hero and needs everyones support.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy