School Advocacy
Advocating for inclusive schools is crucial for ensuring that all students, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community, can learn in environments that are welcoming.
The choices made in classrooms, by school boards, and within district offices have a significant impact on the well-being of students and the safety of the community as a whole.
This page is here to support educators, families, and community members by providing them with the tools, resources, and strategies needed to effectively push for inclusive policies and practices. You’ll find guidance for navigating local school systems, organizing for change, responding to harmful policies, and building the people power needed to create schools where all students can thrive.
Building People Power with Welcoming Schools
This Month in School Board and Education Policy
Together, these developments underscore what we know to be true: school boards remain on the front lines of the ongoing fight for inclusive, affirming public education.
Federal Education Responsibilities Continue to Shift
The Department of Education announced additional restructuring that shifts responsibility for civil rights enforcement to the Department of Justice and transfers oversight of key special education functions to the Department of Health and Human Services. While the long-term impact remains to be seen, these changes could affect how schools receive guidance, investigate complaints, and access federal support. (Trump administration further dismantles Education Department).
Curriculum Debates Continue to Shape Public Education
This month, the Texas State Board of Education approved a statewide required reading list that includes selected Bible passages for public school students beginning in 2030. The decision reflects the continuing national conversation around curriculum, instructional materials, religious freedom, and the role of state and local education leaders in determining what students learn. (Bible stories are approved as required reading in Texas public schools).
School Board Election Season Is Here
July and August mark candidate filing season for many of the school board elections happening across the country this fall! Thinking about running for school board—or know someone who should? Our NEW Run for What Matters guide walks prospective candidates through how to get started on their school board candidate journey! (Check out the guide here)
Resources
| Title | Summary | Link to Resource |
|---|---|---|
| School Boards Matter | The tools within this guide will help you advocate for inclusive policies for LGBTQ+ and all students at the school board level. | Read the Guide |
| Confronting Censorship in Our Schools | We know from experience that speaking up and getting involved works, so let’s all do our part. Together, we can protect the freedom to read, to learn, and to be our complete selves in our schools. | Read the Guide |
| Making the Grade: How to Find an LGBTQ+ Inclusive School District | Think of this as your study guide for choosing the right district. With the right information, you can ensure that your school truly makes the grade. | Read the Guide |
| Protecting Our School Communities: A Response to ICE Enforcement | Schools should always be places of learning, stability, and belonging. This guide offers general considerations for how school communities can support students and families. | Read the Guide |
| Navigating Pushback From Stakeholders | As a school leader, you may encounter resistance whether you’re speaking at a school board meeting, hosting a family night, or talking with a colleague. It’s important to remember: you don’t have to be an expert to be effective in fostering positive change. You just need to stay calm, grounded in the foundations of Welcoming Schools, and focused on what truly matters—the well-being of every student. | Read the Guide |
| Mahmoud v. Taylor School Stakeholder Explainer | Here is what staff and leadership need to know to be prepared for any complications resulting from the Mahmoud v. Taylor ruling. | Read the Guide |
| Transgender Youth Losing Access to Healthcare: What Educators Need to Know | The Supreme Court’s ruling in U.S. v. Skrmetti is a significant roadblock and setback for children in the United States. For school staff, here’s what’s important to understand. | Read the Guide |
| Organizing GSAs in Challenging School Climates | Building community allows LGBTQ+ students and allies to thrive, here are some ideas for organizing while staying informed and assessing the risks. | Read the Guide |
| Community Care is Self-Care | Tapping into community care is a great way to take care of yourself. In this guide, we’ll share ways to find and build that community support. | Read the Guide |
| Thriving in College: Navigating LGBTQ+ Resources and Support | This guide highlights ways LGBTQ+ students can navigate campus life and thrive. | Read the Guide |