Emotional School Board Meeting On Bullying

COON RAPIDS (AP) - Parents and students packed an emotional Anoka-Hennepin School Board meeting to urge the district to impose tougher rules against bullying.

Dozens of people gathered Monday night in Coon Rapids to impel the board to better train teachers on issues affecting gay, lesbian and transgender students.

One of the speakers addressing the board was Tammy Aaberg. Her 15-year-old son, Justin, committed suicide last summer. Aaberg says her son was bullied because he was gay. She says she's made it her mission to tell his story. Aaberg left the meeting in tears.

Many in the crowded room held signs urging tolerance.  The school board issued a statement saying the district is committed to keeping all students safe and will continue to provide training.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)