All educators want to provide the best learning environment for their students.  So for those teachers, guidance counselors, and administrators  who’ve ever wondered, “how can I help LGBTQ students?”, here are some suggestions.

First, learn about LGBTQ student experiences.  Several books provide excellent insight into their lives.

·         The Transgender Child: A Handbook for Families and Professionals

·         David Campos' Understanding Gay and Lesbian Youth: Lessons for Straight School Teachers, Counselors, and Administrators 

·         Mitchell Gold’s Crisis: 40 Stories Revealing the Personal, Social, and Religious Pain and Trauma of Growing Up Gay in America

Day-to-day word choices and supportive behaviors are found at http://safeschoolsnc.com/ForEducators/TeachingLGBTyouthchildrenofLGBTparents.aspx.

In North Carolina, the School Violence Prevention Act clearly describes the proper procedure for disciplining bullies. 

Several websites offer suggestions on turning blatant or implied anti-LGBT statements into learning experiences.

·         University of Oregon’s Bias, Hate Speech, and Prejudice Discussions. 

Take your support to the next level by sponsoring a Gay-Straight Alliance, joining the local chapter of Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, or forming an educator study group on homophobia in schools.