For supporters
For educators
For many LGBTQ+ students, school is where they most need to feel safe — and a single supportive adult can change everything. Small, consistent signals add up.
Make your classroom feel safe
- Signal acceptance early — a sticker, a line in your syllabus, or simply not letting slurs slide tells students you’re a safe adult.
- Use the names and pronouns students ask for, and model correcting yourself gracefully.
- Respond to anti-LGBTQ+ comments every time, calmly and consistently. Silence reads as agreement.
- Don’t out students — including to parents or other staff — unless there’s a genuine safety concern. Know your school’s policy.
Support the whole school
- Back or sponsor a GSA (Gender & Sexuality Alliance) — they measurably improve student wellbeing.
- Include LGBTQ+ people in curriculum and examples where it fits, so students see themselves.
- Keep a short list of vetted resources on hand for students who reach out.
If a student is in distress
If a student confides that they’re struggling or unsafe, listen, take it seriously, and connect them with help — your school counselor, and crisis lines like The Trevor Project. If a student is in immediate danger, follow your school’s safety protocol and call 911.
Organizations for educators
GLSEN offers research-backed resources, lesson materials, and support for GSAs and inclusive schools. Browse our resource directory for more affirming organizations.