Project Background 

Bullying is an act that still affects many people today and that has deep emotional long-lasting impacts. Bullying is defined as an act that happens “when someone aggressively uses their “power” to target another individual with repeated, unwanted words or actions. Those targeted are hurt either physically or emotionally and have a hard time stopping what is happening to them” (PACER Center, 2023). It is also considered a form of youth violence and an adverse childhood experience (ACE).

Bullying is also a very commonly reported discipline problem in public schools in America. Almost 14% of schools reported that bullying happens at least once a week, with the middle schools having the highest prevalence (28%). Bullying can also happen online; reports of cyberbullying among public school students in the United States are also highest for middle school (33%). (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023).
In Minnesota, according to the 2013-2022 Minnesota Student Survey Reports, more than 64% of 5th grade students reported having been bullied at least once during the last 30 days, and more than 20% of these students reported that this bullying occurred at least once a week, in the last month. In Minnesota, data corresponding to students of Latino or Hispanic origin show even higher numbers. More than 66% of these Hispanic or Latino students reported being bullied at least once in the last month, and more than 25% weekly or more.