Robert Marucci told WKMDG Local 6 that made the decision to because he considered the job just that – work that would help with his family’s financial issues.

For his effort, Marucci says he’s been bullied by students and now, he says the school is bullying him.

Local 6 says Marucci’s mother was aware of what her son was doing and that he did so to support her financially.

“I think he’s the most awesome person in the world,” she said. “He stood up and he was the man of the house when I couldn’t be.”

Administrators cited threats Marucci allegedly made, but his mother says the expulsion was purely a reaction to his career.

Some of the school’s students staged a walkout in solidarity with Marucci last week, a move he says he was not involved with.

The the family is seeking an apology from school faculty. According to friends and family, Marucci has been a good student, and had never been in trouble before.