As many as 1 in 6 students identify as LGBTQ, which equates to about five students per classroom. LGBTQ students are highly vulnerable to sexual abuse, bullying, assault and suicide. As a result, districts must prioritize training for staff to enhance student safety. This presentation will provide insights to the experiences and challenges of LGBTQ students and their risk and protective factors. Current laws and policies will be highlighted along with supportive strategies, signaling safety, and affirming names and pronouns to increase safety. Best practices for implementation of Gender Identity Support Plans will also be included.
Trainers: Heidi Cisneros, ASCIP Student Safety Advocate, and Lindsey Etheridge, CEO/Founder Kinder Future