5.3 LGBQ Parents and Schools

5.3 LGBQ Parents and Schools

One way to make schools safer for children of LGBQ parents and for the parents themselves is for schools to enforce anti-bullying and anti-discrimination policies. A study done by the Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network states that "Schools must also have comprehensive anti-bullying and anti-discrimination policies that protect all students from harassment and include clear and effective systems for reporting and addressing incidents that students experience" (2008). This can help children of LGBQ parents and their parents at school events and on the average school day. If the children in school are expected to be accepting of others then this could diminish harassment toward children LGBQ parents and students who have different sexual orientations and identities. Though schools can have these policies in place, they must also be enforced for them to be effective. Teachers and administrators need to believe in their policies an enforce them so that there can be a difference for these students. All students should feel safe at their schools so that can have a positive learning experience.

Reference

Kosciw, J. G., & Diaz, E. M. (2008). Involved, Invisible, Ignored: The Experiences of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and
 Transgender Parents and Their Children in Our Nation's K-12 Schools. Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education 
 Network (GLSEN). 121 West 27th Street Suite 804, New York, NY 10001.