Prevention of Bullying Task Force

Governor's Task Force on the Prevention of Bullying

The Governor's Task Force on the Prevention of Bullying was established by by executive order in February 2012.

The Minnesota Department of Human Rights is one of the organizations appointed to the Task Force on the Prevention of School Bullying. The task force will examine current trends in bullying, intimidation and harassment in Minnesota schools and review existing related laws and regulations. From this review and input from experts on the topic, the task force will define bullying, harassment and intimidation and then provide policy recommendations to the Governor and Legislature. The task force will hold meetings through July 2012 and conduct listening sessions around the state.

"Bullying causes severe suffering and harm to the children, who are its victims; and we must do more to stop it. Children and parents in Minnesota should have confidence that their schools are safe places for learning and are free of harm or intimidation. The work of this Task Force is critical to ensuring that a healthy and nurturing school environment exists for every child in our state,"

- Governor Dayton

"Every student deserves to be free of harassment, intimidation and bullying in all its forms. The Governor's leadership in establishing this task force provides an opportunity for us to come together as a community to find real solutions to this problem, and ensure that all kids have an opportunity to achieve their potential in a safe environment."

- Commissioner Kevin Lindsey
Minnesota Department of Human Rights

"Students can't learn if they don't feel supported and safe. Bullying creates an unsafe learning environment that can have a lasting negative impact on a child. Our schools need to be places that cultivate a positive environment where students can thrive. That's why the mission of the Governor's Task Force is so important."

– Commissioner Brenda Cassellius
Minnesota Department of Education