SAN DIEGO (CNS) - A San Diego-based coalition of LGBTQ+ youth-serving organizations has released a new guide intended to help educators in San Diego County foster safe, inclusive learning environments for LGBTQ+ students, with the goal of providing safer environments for all, including students who may not identify as LGBTQ+.
The "LGBTQ+ Youth Standards of Care" guide is for elementary, middle and secondary school administrators. It also includes guidance for Parent Teacher Association/Organization leaders, medical support staff, teachers, politicians, parents and anyone who wants to support youth in a "culturally responsive and policy-informed capacity," according to the guide.
"Research that shows that a hostile school climate affects students' academic success and mental health, and that LGBTQIA+ students who experience victimization and discrimination at school have worse educational outcomes and poorer psychological well-being," said Paul Gothold, San Diego County superintendent of schools. "It's up to us to offer resources and supports to promote a positive learning experience. The LGBTQ+ Youth Standards of Care will be an important tool for that work."
Each section outlines recommendations for best practices and relevant resources that reflect and comply with California Education Codes and laws. Additionally, the sections cover topics such as state legislation and training, preventing and responding to bullying and harassment, inclusive curricula, name and gender marker changes and access to facilities, programs and extracurricular activities.
"During this month of Pride we stand with our LGBTQIA+ students, staff, and community members," said Julie Vitale, superintendent of the Oceanside School District. "The LGBTQIA+ Youth Standards of Care will serve as a guidepost to ensure we are meeting the needs of our LGBTQIA+ students."
The guide is being released against a backdrop of a surge in anti- LGBTQ and anti-transgender legislation in state capitols around the country. According to LGBTQ advocacy group and political lobbying organization Human Rights Campaign, 2021 has been the worst year for state legislative attacks on the LGBTQ+ community, with 17 bills the organization calls anti-LGBTQ enacted and at least 11 more awaiting a governor's signature or veto.
The annual National School Climate Survey from GLSEN -- formerly the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network -- shows that despite significant legal progress for LGBTQ+ communities over the past decades, youth still face discrimination, bullying, harassment and violence at school throughout San Diego schools and the entire country.
Dave LeMaster, executive director of learning support services at Poway Unified School District, said the guide will help combat hateful attitudes and assist students.
"Over the past several years, the Poway Unified School District has worked closely with TransFamily Support Services to help not only support our students, but educate our staff and families," he said. "The Youth Services & Advocacy Committee of the San Diego Community Leadership Council creation of the LGBTQ+ Standards of Care provides a comprehensive resource that will help guide and educate schools and districts in how to provide the best possible support and experience for their students and families."
The Youth Services & Advocacy Committee of the San Diego LGBTQ Community Leadership Council is made up of 25 youth-serving organizations in San Diego County. Eight of those organizations contributed to the creation of this guide, including TransFamily Support Services, San Diego Pride, San Diego LGBT Community Center, North County LGBTQ Resource Center, GLSEN San Diego, PFLAG San Diego County, Mental Health America of San Diego County and Our Safe Place.