Gay middle schools

Findings show that LGBTQ middle school students often face more hostile school climates than their high school peers, yet have access to fewer supportive resources in school. 1 They also have higher rates of contemplating, attempting, and dying by suicide. Normalize gender diversity and the needs of gender-diverse students. 2 One way schools can combat these attacks is to host a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA). High schools across the country have answered the challenge to provide safe and supportive spaces for children. Slower to move, however, are middle schools. 3 As teachers, counselors, and administrators, we hear the words of bullies reported, comfort the bruises of victims, and see the bigger picture of prejudice that spans from classroom to soccer field to hallway. High schools across the country have answered the challenge to provide safe and supportive spaces for children. 4 Many middle school GSAs work toward improving the school environment by working on projects or running campaigns such as GLSEN’s Day of Silence, No Name-Calling Week, and Ally Week, or by hosting school assemblies to discuss LGBTQ+ student experiences and celebrate LGBTQ+ pride. 5 Thank you! There have been some concerning stores, particularly about one school not mentioned here. 6 Here are some of the numbers and key findings about school safety, verbal and physical harassment, and support in schools based on the report. 7 Started last year by student request, the group decided to focus on making our school a safe and welcoming place for LGBTQ students. Some people might raise eyebrows at having a GSA in a middle school. 8 GSAs have evolved beyond their traditional role to serve as safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth in middle schools and high schools, and have emerged as vehicles for deep social change related to racial, gender, and educational justice. 9 . 10 . 11 . 12