LfS:  this reads like you know far more about the Creswell Schools than do I.  I do feel the "bullying/cruelty" culture is very common today.  People gain power and influence at a direct cost to others' well-being.  I doubt it's limited to any one school.  If fact, as you state, it's become a rather central facet of our culture.  I'm not sure what "we" can do about it as a cultural habit; but, I do know we can not engage in it and we can confront it if we see it.   I really enjoy humor.....but not at the cost of others' feelings.  That may sound, to some, "wimpy", "girly" or whatever, but, to me, belittling and mocking others, is far from a "manly" behavior.  It's the behavior of a bully and a coward.  regards, Gary