HOLLEY, N.Y. — A physical altercation between two Holley Middle School students last week is sparking concern.

One parent believes her child was targeted because he was wearing a Pride flag.

River Perrin was born a girl, but now identifies as a boy. Robayn Perrin says because of that, he's faced bullying at school.

"It's been going on since the beginning of the school year,” Perrin said. "At first we knew it was because River was wanting to be a boy and we knew because of the messages he was getting on Snapchat.”

Last week Perrin says a student waited for River to leave the bathroom and then came after him.

"She grabbed the back of his Pride flag because he was wearing it like a cape and gave a yank,” Perrin said. “She turned to walk away and River turned around, grabbed her backpack and gave a yank.”

Robayn said River had bruises on his neck from the flag being ripped off.

Holley Central School District Superintendent Brian Bartalo confirms a physical altercation took place, but couldn't give more details or say what caused it. He says River and the other student were suspended for a few days.

Robayn says she is sharing River's story to encourage other parents in the school district to have conversations about inclusion.

"We should support our child and how they choose to be,” Perrin said. “But at the same time, we shouldn't be scared and sweep it under the rug.”

Perrin says he and the district have been in contact about the bullying.

Holley Central School District sent a statement on the altercation:

"The safety and well-being of our students and staff is our utmost concern. All members of our school community are treated with dignity, fairness and in a non-discriminatory manner. If we are alerted to a situation that has violated these principles or our Code of Conduct, the situation is investigated.”