Make this Year Great for Your LGBTQ+ Students: Create an LGBTQ+-friendly school!

In recent years, the political climate surrounding LGBTQ rights has become increasingly contentious, with significant implications for students. Legislative changes and debates around Title IX have placed LGBTQ youth at the center of national conversations, often leading to environments where these students feel particularly vulnerable. Schools, which should be safe havens, are sometimes perceived as battlegrounds where the rights and identities of LGBTQ students are questioned or undermined. This challenging landscape makes it more crucial than ever to actively create LGBTQ+-friendly schools for students as they return to school.

As the new school year begins, it’s essential to ensure that all students feel safe, supported, and valued—especially those who identify as LGBTQ. Research, including my own work within schools, highlights that LGBTQ students often face unique challenges. The transition back to school can be a particularly sensitive time. Fortunately, there are actionable steps educators and administrators can take to foster a more inclusive and affirming environment. Drawing on insights from both my research and GLSEN's studies, here are key strategies to create an LGBTQ-friendly space for students this school year.

Creating an LGBTQ-Friendly Space for Students Returning to School

As the new school year begins, it’s essential to ensure that all students feel safe, supported, and valued—especially those who identify as LGBTQ. Research, including my own work within schools, highlights that LGBTQ students often face unique challenges. The transition back to school can be a particularly sensitive time. Fortunately, there are actionable steps educators and administrators can take to foster a more inclusive and affirming environment. Drawing on insights from both my research and GLSEN's studies, here are key strategies to create an LGBTQ-friendly space for students this school year.

1. Implement Inclusive Policies

One of the most effective ways to create a welcoming environment is by implementing and enforcing inclusive school policies. These policies should explicitly protect students from bullying, harassment, and discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. According to GLSEN’s National School Climate Survey, schools with comprehensive non-discrimination policies report lower levels of victimization among LGBTQ students. Administrators should ensure that these policies are clearly communicated to both staff and students and that there are established procedures for reporting and addressing incidents.

2. Promote LGBTQ-Inclusive Curriculum

Representation matters. An inclusive curriculum that reflects diverse sexual orientations and gender identities can make LGBTQ students feel seen and validated. Incorporating LGBTQ history, literature, and perspectives into the curriculum helps normalize these identities and challenges stereotypes. Research has shown that when students learn about LGBTQ topics in a positive and accurate context, it fosters a more accepting school climate. Teachers should be equipped with resources and training to confidently introduce these materials into their classrooms.

3. Provide Supportive Resources and Spaces

Creating designated safe spaces, such as LGBTQ student clubs or support groups, can provide a sanctuary for students who may feel marginalized. These groups offer a sense of community and a platform for advocacy, helping students connect with others who share similar experiences. Additionally, having visible LGBTQ-affirming resources, such as posters, brochures, and library books, signals to students that their identities are respected and that they are not alone.

4. Engage in Ongoing Professional Development

Continuous professional development for educators and staff is crucial in maintaining an inclusive school environment. Training should cover topics like understanding LGBTQ identities, recognizing the signs of bullying, and knowing how to intervene effectively. GLSEN’s research emphasizes the importance of staff who are well-informed about LGBTQ issues in reducing instances of harassment and improving overall school climate. Schools should regularly schedule training sessions to ensure that all staff members are equipped to support LGBTQ students.

5. Foster an Affirming Culture

Creating an LGBTQ-friendly space goes beyond policies and curriculum; it involves cultivating an affirming school culture where respect and inclusion are woven into the fabric of daily interactions. This can be achieved through simple actions such as using inclusive language, respecting students’ chosen names and pronouns, and encouraging open discussions about diversity and inclusion. Educators should model acceptance and challenge discriminatory behavior whenever it occurs. Building a culture of respect ensures that all students, regardless of their identity, feel safe and valued.

6. Involve the Broader School Community

Building an LGBTQ-friendly space requires the involvement of the entire school community, including parents, guardians, and community members. Schools can organize events and workshops that promote understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ issues, fostering a supportive environment both in and out of the classroom. Engaging the broader community helps reinforce the message that everyone plays a role in creating a safe and inclusive space for all students.

Conclusion

As students return to school this week, it’s imperative that we take deliberate steps to ensure LGBTQ youth feel welcome and supported. By implementing inclusive policies, promoting an LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum, providing resources and safe spaces, engaging in ongoing professional development, fostering an affirming culture, and involving the broader school community, we can create an environment where every student can thrive.

The start of the school year is an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of LGBTQ students. By committing to these actions, we can help ensure that they return to a school environment where they are not only accepted but celebrated for who they are. For more information on how you can support your LGBTQIA+ students this year contact Nina here.