Community Activist's Bold Stand Against Bullying Sparks Debate in Kerrville

30 May 2025

Kyle Lee, left, and his "Anti-Bully Gang" pulled up to Kerrville's Starkey on May 16, 2205, after receiving at tip that Brycen Moreno was being bullied. Courtesy of Kyle Lee

In a powerful display of solidarity, San Antonio-based anti-bullying advocate Kyle Lee, founder of the nonprofit Anti-Bully Gang (ABG), made headlines with a recent visit to Starkey Elementary School in Kerrville, Texas. The visit aimed to support 7-year-old student Brycen Moreno, who has been facing persistent bullying due to his alopecia, a condition causing hair loss. The event, however, has ignited discussions on the balance between advocacy and school protocols.

Jonathan Moreno, Brycen's father, recounted his son's struggles since developing alopecia two years ago. Despite raising concerns with school administrators, Moreno felt that adequate measures were not taken to address the bullying. Seeking external support, he reached out to ABG, known for its unique approach of rallying community support through high-profile school visits.

ABG's signature method involves arriving at schools in a convoy of luxury vehicles such as Lamborghinis and Ferraris to uplift bullied students and draw attention to their plight. These "pull-ups" aim to make students feel valued and to signal to schools that the community is watching. Lee emphasizes that the goal is not to confront schools but to support students and encourage positive change.

On May 16, Lee and his team arrived at Starkey Elementary to support Brycen. However, the event took an unexpected turn when school staff escorted Brycen out early, limiting his interaction with the ABG team. A video capturing the incident went viral on TikTok, amassing over 1.8 million views and sparking widespread discussion.

Kerrville Independent School District (KISD) issued a statement affirming its commitment to a safe and respectful learning environment. The district highlighted its anti-bullying policies and procedures, emphasizing the importance of advance coordination for on-campus activities to ensure student safety and privacy. KISD also pointed to resources available on its Bullying Awareness & Prevention page

The incident has drawn mixed reactions. While some praise ABG's efforts to spotlight bullying issues, others question the approach's alignment with school policies. Despite the controversy, Brycen's father reports a positive change in his son's demeanor, noting increased confidence and support from peers. ABG continues to offer counseling and support services, with their efforts recently recognized by Texas state lawmaker Josey Garcia

The Kerrville incident underscores the complexities of addressing bullying within school systems. It highlights the need for collaborative efforts between schools, families, and community organizations to create safe and supportive environments for all students. As discussions continue, the focus remains on ensuring that students like Brycen receive the support and protection they deserve.