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.
Minnesota District Bans Rainbow Symbols in Schools
Just before the start of the new school year, the Detroit Lakes School Board in Minnesota approved a policy banning rainbow stickers, posters, buttons, and flags.
Supporters call the policy an effort to keep schools “neutral,” while opponents say it removes important visible signs of safety and belonging for LGBTQ+ students. (Detroit Lakes school leader ‘blindsided’ by vote banning LGBTQ Pride rainbows).
Nevada District Requires Disclosure of Students' Gender Transitions
The Carson City School District in Nevada approved a policy requiring school employees to notify parents about a student's “social or gender transition.”
This decision continues to raise concerns about student privacy and the growing efforts to require schools to disclose information about LGBTQ+ students to their families regardless of safety. (Carson City school staff must report student “social or gender transitions” under approved policy change).
Federal Pressure Leads Maryland District to Change LGBTQ+ Student Policy
Last month, we flagged that the federal government threatened action against Anne Arundel County Public Schools in Maryland and other districts over policies protecting transgender student privacy.
Since then, the district has revised its guidance, including removing language directing staff not to disclose a student's gender identity unless legally required, showing us all in real time how federal pressure is reshaping local school district policies. (Maryland school district updates gender policy after federal threat).
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 |
| Supporting Transgender-Student Athletes Following B.P.J. & Hecox Supreme Court Decision | School leaders and staff may be navigating questions about athletic eligibility, student support, and local policies. This resource provides practical information on what the decision means and what it does not. | Read the Guide |
| Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth Mental Health in Schools | This guide covers overarching guidance on best practices as well as specific actions that educators and school staff can take to better support LGBTQ+ youth. | Read the Guide |
| Show Up, Speak Out: A Student Guide to Making Your Voice Heard at School | This resource will help you advocate for a safe, welcoming, and respectful school community. We’ll give you practical ways to make a difference, amplify your voice, and engage in constructive action while understanding your own rights, responsibilities, and safety. | Read the Guide |