As educators, CEA members prepare students to be ready to thrive in a world full of diverse people. Pride month helps students understand that we should all be able to feel comfortable being true to ourselves and that we can respect our differences and become stronger because of those differences.
LGBTQ+ students are more likely to face bullying and harassment, leading to poor grades, higher dropout rates, and homelessness. A 2015 survey by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) found that “LGBTQ+ students experience pervasive harassment and discrimination, but school-based supports can make a difference.”
Learn how you and your school can better support LGBTQ+ students by checking out the links below.
- Connecticut State Department of Education guidance on civil rights protections and supports for transgender or gender-diverse students.
- Learn how to start a Gender and Sexuality Alliance at your school.
- This safe space kit offers tips on how to be an ally to LGBTQ+ youth.
- Find LGBTQ+ suicide prevention tips and access to 24/7 crises counseling.
- These resources can help educators support and include LGBTQ+ students in their classrooms.
- For $2, purchase an NEA “I’m Here” safe space badge.
- K-12 schools can request a free Rainbow Library of LGBTQ+ themed books.
- Help college-bound students find and compare colleges according to their LGBTQ+ friendly status.
