Description
The purpose of this study was to identify factors that may have contributed to a comparably safer school climate for LGBT youth at three California public high schools. Furthermore, the intent of the research was to identify common themes and proven strategies that could potentially be replicated and initiated in other schools. This study includes data collected from interviews with each school's principal, school counselor, and GSA advisor to gather their perspectives of what may have contributed to a comparably safer school climate for LGBT students at their schools, respectively. In addition, full-time teaching staff were invited to participate in a confidential online survey to gain their perspectives, as well as to validate data collected from interviews. Specifically, the following research question directed this study: What do various stakeholders believe may be contributing to a comparably safer school climate for LGBT students? The findings that emerged provide a potential roadmap for schools that wish to create a safer and more inclusive school climate for LGBT students. More specifically, the areas of focus include (a) anti-bullying policies, procedures, and school culture; (b) staff training; (c) gay and straight alliances and visible safe spaces; (d) LGBT-inclusive curricula; and (e) inclusive school-wide activities.
