In an American middle school, the documentary initially introduces Alex Libby, a socially awkward 12-year-old who becomes a frequent target for bullies. His desperate attempts to fit in only result in increased torment, pushing him to the brink both emotionally and physically. Concurrently, Kelby Johnson, an openly gay teenager, faces severe alienation and harassment in her small-town high school. Despite having a supportive family, the community's pervasive prejudices make her life increasingly difficult. The film captures their day-to-day struggles, using their experiences to shed light on the pervasive issue of school bullying.

Each student's narrative is interwoven with emotional interviews of their families and other children facing similar issues. There is a stark portrayal of how institutions—schools, law enforcement, and communities—often fail to address the brutality these children endure. The documentary captures the scale of the problem, revealing the ineffectiveness of anti-bullying policies and the devastating consequences on the lives of young people. Through the stories of Alex, Kelby, and others, the narrative builds a compelling case for the urgent need for societal and institutional change in attitudes toward bullying.