PTA and the LGBTQ+ community
National PTA believes that schools should be a safe, supportive and respectful environment for all students. However, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) students are more likely than their peers to be bullied, feel unsafe in school and skip school due to safety concerns. Within this climate of hostility, one in six LGBTQ youth report being physically assaulted within the past year because of their real or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. And LGBTQ students
are two to four times more likely to commit suicide than their non-LGBTQ peers.
PTA believe that every child deserves to go to school excited to learn—without the fear of bullying, violence or discrimination. When PTA respects differences-yet acknowledges shared commonalities, it unifies their communities and allows them to develop meaningful priorities that broadly represent their students, families and school.
This strengthens the community they serve with effective volunteer and resource support.
National PTA Position Statements
Position Statement-Inclusive Curricula in K-12 Education
Position Statement-Libraries and Educational Material
National PTA Resolutions
Recognition of LGBTQ Individuals as a Protected Class
PTA Guidance on Recognition of LGBTQ Individuals as a Protected Class Resolution
National PTA Resources
Nurturing Healthy, Safe Relationships for LGBTQ+ Youth: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers
LGBTQ Children and Families Resource Page
For all students to feel safe and included in their schools, there must be practices in place to support LGBTQ+ and gender non-binary youth. Our PTA can play a leading role in advancing the inclusion efforts in our school.
3 Ways to Make Your School More LGBTQ-Inclusive
Read some of GLSEN’s suggestions of ways to make your school more LGBTQ+ inclusive. And, consider collaborating with your school’s GSA
https://www.glsen.org/blog/3-ways-your-gsa-can-make-your-school-more-lgbtq-inclusive
Gender Spectrum resources for youth
Create a more welcoming and understanding environment around gender identity and expression at your school
https://www.genderspectrum.org/ptsa-resources/
LGBTQ Glossary of Terms
Review these definitions of several key terms related to the LGBTQ community so you can learn appropriate, affirming language and be better equipped to create inclusive environments for LGBTQ children and families
https://www.pta.org/docs/default-source/files/programs/ptsa/lgbtq-glossary.pdf
This resource list is for reference purposes only. We are not liable for the quality of service and treatment you may receive. By offering this resource list, Mill Creek Elementary PTA in no way endorses the use of a particular provider or agency’s services. Mill Creek Elementary PTA makes no representations, and assumes no obligations, regarding the choice or quality of mental health, medical, or other treatment one may receive through any listed provider or agency.