With schools back in session, many students struggle with bullying, harassment and intimidation from their peers. Recently, the Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network (GLSEN) just released the 2011 National School Climate Survey.
GLSEN's research shows that 8 out of 10 LGBT students nationwide still experience harassment at school. School-based resources and supports are making a difference. Students who attend schools with Gay Straight Alliances (GSAs), LGBT-inclusive curriculum, school personnel who are supportive of LGBT students, and comprehensive anti-bullying policies that included specific protections for LGBT youth had more positive experiences than students at other schools.
In Oregon, laws passed in 2010 set clear guidelines that were necessary for comprehensive school safety, including attention to cyber-bullying and mandatory staff training and incident reporting. In May 2012, Oregon Safe Schools and Communities Coalition published the State of the Safe Schools Act (PDF), which revealed which schools were in compliance with state laws. Last year, OSSCC was proud to partner with GLSEN Oregon Chapter to help reach out to youth in Oregon to participate in GLSEN's National School Climate Survey.
Tonight we welcome Ryan from Oregon Safe Schools and Communities Coalition to discuss the ongoing work to improve school safety for all students. We'll discuss the First Annual Safe Schools Awards for schools, districts, individuals and programs. The honors will be awarded on Friday Oct 5th from 6:30 to 8:30pm at the Q Center. The event is hosted by Oregon Safe Schools and Communities Coalition, Q Center, Portland's PFLAG, TransActive, Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network, and Oregon and SW Washington LGBTQ Teachers and Allies. Awards will be given to strong advocates of Safe Schools working to improve school climate for all students.
At the Safe Schools Awards event, a Proclamation from the Office of the Governor will be read declaring October 7 - 13 to be "Safe Schools Week". Thank you Govenor Kitzhaber!
Join us for this important back-to-school coversation!
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Until next time, stay proud and live out loud! and thanks for listening!