“Teachers are extremely complacent with students acting out in classes. How can you feel safe and secure when closeted, when in your classroom there are certain people coming down on gays and lesbians? The teachers do nothing”

Derek, Winnipeg Student. The Manitoba Human Rights Commission, 1999.

Helping students understand sexuality is a challenge for many teachers. Studies have shown that young people learn about sexuality from their friends, from television and movies, sometimes from books, and, if they are lucky, from their parents.

The school system still struggles with its role in shaping and developing healthy attitudes toward sexuality in heterosexual students; it has only begun to scratch the surface of the issues faced by gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (glbt) students.

For glbt students , there are fewer opportunities for open, honest discussions abut their feelings with friends and family. There are fewer books, television shows, and movies with positive portrayals of the kinds of relationships they are looking for. The Internet has also become a primary source of information, though its reliability can sometimes be called into question.

GLBT youth need accurate information, clear communication, and an empathetic ear. Whether you are a teacher, principal, guidance counselor, or school administrator, understanding homosexuality and homophobia is vital to your ability to deal effectively and competently with the concerns of glbt students.

On this site you will find some of the terminology and facts you need to communicate successfully about what can be a sensitive issue. We offer articles and sample lesson plans to help you develop strategies for dealing with harassment in the school or providing counseling to a glbt student. You will find options for networking with other professionals and resources for expanding your knowledge.

Lesbian and gay youth are 2-6 times more likely to attempt suicide than other youth.

Report of the Secretary's Task Force on Youth Suicide, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1989.

Service providers estimate that gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth make up 20-40% of homeless youth in urban areas.

The National Network of Runaway and Youth Services.

AlterHeros.com - Information on homophobia and the school environment, activities and events in the community, personal stories, and a gallery showcasing artistic work.