The latest federal data on the well-being of American kids found LGBTQ students were much more likely to have experienced all forms of violence and worse mental health outcomes than straight youths. Schools are being urged to provide safe spaces for LGBTQ kids and promote welcoming and accepting environments.
It would be hard for LGBTQ students to feel safe and accepted if attempts to confide in their teachers and school staff about their sexuality and gender identity must be reported to parents.
That is among the requirements of a “Don’t Say Gay” bill in Georgia patterned after Florida’s law, but more expansive. Senate Bill 88 would ban teachers from discussing sexual orientation or gender identity “other than the child’s biological sex” with students through age 16 unless they first obtain parental consent. In Florida, the prohibition of discussion about sexual orientation or gender identity applies in kindergarten through third grade.
