The role of school counselor is integral to creating an environment where all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/ expression, feel safe and accepted at school. School counselors may feel hesitant to address issues affecting LGBTQQ students and families because they lack experience or awareness in working with LGBTQQ youth or children of LGBTQQ parents. Others may work in environments where they feel powerless to change the status quo or to address a discriminatory school climate. Between scheduling, parent-teacher conferences, classroom guidance lessons, and a heavy caseload, it is often difficult for school counselors to find the time necessary to proactively address LGBTQQ issues – such as bullying or prejudice in schools.
GSSC is here to help. The following is a list of detailed suggestions that will facilitate positive systemic change within your school:
Work with your principal and/or school board to include a comprehensive non-discrimination and anti-bullying policy, one that protects all students regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression.
Sponsor a Gay-Straight Alliance (consider a name change, one that is inclusive of transgender, bisexual and questioning students).
Let students know your office is safe. Place a “Safe Zone” sticker on your door and encourage others to do the same.
Encourage media specialists to carry books that are inclusive of LGBTQQ people and issues.
Always remember that the real experts on LGBTQQ youth are LGBTQQ youth; students are an integral part of transforming school climate and should be involved in creating sustainable systemic change.
Incorporate diversity and social justice into your classroom guidance lessons. For lesson plans, visit www.tolerance.org
Be inclusive of LGBT families
Avoid dichotomizing gender (e.g., using phrases like, “boys aren’t supposed to…).
Address school personnel on issues affecting LGBTQQ students or request a training from Georgia Safe School Coalition
Incorporate diversity and social justice into your classroom guidance lessons. For lesson plans, visit www.tolerance.org - should be changed to new link: www.LearningForJustice.org
Encourage your school to participate in a Day of Action:
Day of Silence
Think B4 You Speak
No Name-Calling Week
Ally Week
*For more information on Days of Action, visit www.glsen.org
If you would like LGBTQQIA cultural competency training or safe zone training we’ve got you covered.
GSCA/GSSC Webinar Series
LGBTQ Support: Counselor Foundation and Fundamentals
Topics: Student Needs, Professional Responsibilities. Student voices/quotes/my research). The alphabet and initialism (LGBTGEQIAP+).
October 2022: https://youtu.be/ZXV9HKirlx0
LGBTQ Support: The Counselor Mindset, Skills, and Responses
Topics: Attitudes of Support/ Being an Advocate. Identity Development. Coming Out Responses.
December 2022: https://youtu.be/UUWq0bdlLeo
LGBTQ Support: Assessing My School Climate/Actions and Supporting Transgender and Gender Expansive Students
Topics: Types of school climates and possible actions. Trans/Gender Expansive Students Supports.
February 2023: https://youtu.be/st1Xk2YMx8w
LGBTQ Support: The High School to College Transition
Topics: Unique developmental and career issues. What some of the research suggests about their experiences (student voices). Areas for high school counselors to consider.
March 2023: https://youtu.be/V3J5lz6_SfM
Additional Resources
Supporting Trans Students: An Overview for Secondary School Personnel– recorded webinar of GSSC co-founders Dr. Anneliese Singh and Maru Gonzalez discussing basic information to best support transgender and gender non-conforming students. Along with the recording you can download the powerpoint slides here.