For Immediate Release

Contacts:
Kirsten Rappleye
Governors Office
rappleye@utah.gov
801.505.1457
Emilie Wheeler
Utah State Board of Education
emiliewheeler@schools.utah.gov
801.707.8421

Governor Herbert, Superintendent Dickson statement on student safety

SALT LAKE CITY (Nov. 11, 2016) Gov. Gary R. Herbert and Superintendent Sydnee Dickson issued
the following statement in regards to recent reports of student harassment in Utah schools:
Over the past three days, we have received numerous reports of students throughout Utah being
targets of harassment and bullying in our schools. Regardless of the motivation, we do not
condone of this type of behavior.
Students should feel safe in school. Harassment of any kind is not to be tolerated. These reported
actions go strongly against American principles. Any form of bullying is inappropriate and can be
extremely detrimental to the quality education Utah espouses. Every report of this type of
behavior should be taken seriously by educators and parents.
In Utah, we care about each other. As a community, we need to come together in supportive and
safe environments. We encourage students to reach out in friendship and support to others,
including those who may look, sound, or think differently than themselves. As a nation, we need
more kindness, and we believe Utah can lead the way.
Parents are advised that reports of children being harassed at school should be taken seriously and
immediately communicated to an administrator. School employees and students are also encouraged to
report instances of harassment and to actively promote a safe, positive environment.
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