Middle and High Schools

Students who are gender diverse experience greatly increased instances of bullying, teasing, and an overall lack of acceptance. Research has shown that this increases a student’s risk for suicide, homelessness, assault and violence, drug abuse, and more.

Trans and nonbinary children report persistent bullying and harassment in response to their gender differences. According to one national survey…

  • 89.5% of transgender students report feeling unsafe at school
  • 55% of transgender youth report being physically harassed at school because of their gender expression
  • 81% report being sexually harassed at school because of their gender transition
  • 82% report that faculty/staff either never intervened or sometimes intervened when they heard other students make derogatory remarks

Source: Drop the Labels – Back to School, GenderPAC 2004.

 

Gender Diversity will work with you to decrease negative student behaviors and identify ways to create a more inclusive and accepting school environment. With support, trans and nonbinary youth experience significantly greater positive outcomes.

  • Reported Life Satisfaction: Without support: 33%. With support: 72%
  • Reported High Self-Esteem: Without support: 13%. With support: 64%
  • Described Mental Health as “Very Good” or “Excellent”: Without support: 15%. With support: 70%
  • Faced Housing Problems: Without support: 55%. With support: 0%
  • Suffered Depression: Without support: 75%. With support: 23%
  • Attempted Suicide: Without support: 57%. With support: 4%

Source: Why Support for Trans Youth Matters – Trans Youth Equality Foundation, 2012

 

Training for school staff, faculty, students, and parents is an effective pathway to create optimal supportive learning environments.

Topics for trainings include:

  • Respectfully navigating issues/concerns related to political, faith, or cultural differences
  • Bathrooms, locker rooms, and participation in sports and other activities
  • Navigating instances of teasing, harassment, and bullying
  • Distinguishing between gender expression and gender identity
  • Pronoun and name changes
  • Ensuring safety and privacy for all students
  • Model policy and guidelines for implementation
  • Creating gender inclusive health education
  • Leading age-appropriate discussions with children
  • Terminology, systems, procedures, and other logistical considerations
  • Student Support Plans

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