For every student and parent, school should feel like a safe place to learn, grow, and succeed. Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ students are more likely to experience bullying and harassment and face higher rates of mental health challenges like anxiety and depression due, in part, to discrimination, lack of support, and bullying.
According to a 2021 National Student Climate Survey (NSCS) survey conducted by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, 83% of LGBTQ+ students reported experiencing harassment at school, 50% of students felt unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation, and 32% had skipped school because of feeling unsafe. Furthermore, 40% of youth experiencing homelessness identify as LGBTQ+, a startling number considering only 7% of the national population identifies as LGBTQ+. All of these factors put LGBTQ+ youth at a greater risk of dropping out of high school.
Students with a sense of safety and support in their school environment tend to have better educational outcomes. LGBTQ+ students who can access LGBTQ+-related school resources -- such as supportive student clubs, curricular resources, supportive educators, and anti-bullying policies -- report better school experiences and academic success. Sadly, too many schools fall short in delivering these essential resources.
Options For Youth (OFY) is working towards transforming the educational experience for LGBTQ+ youth. The curriculum aims to instill a global perspective on acceptance and a commitment to social justice, and students are encouraged to take advantage of the school's unique social/emotional learning resources. Additionally, each OFY center is created to cultivate an atmosphere of acceptance, allowing students to express themselves openly and honestly, without fear of prejudice or violence. With a zero-bullying policy and accessible counselor support, OFY prioritizes its students' physical and mental well-being.
If you identify as LGBTQ+, below are a few resources that you may find helpful:
- L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center
- LifeWorks – Youth development and mentoring program of the Los Angeles LGBTQ Center
- LA County Dept. of Children & Family Services
- LGBTQ Center of Long BeachLGBT Center OC
- The OUTreach Center (Antelope Valley)
- The Trevor Project – Provides crisis intervention for LGBTQ young people, including the Trevor Lifeline, a 24-hour hotline staffed by trained counselors for LGBTQ youth who are in need of help
