South Carolina Association for Middle Level Education Journal
Abstract
During my experience teaching in a conservative, southern middle school, I have found that gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and queer (LGBTQ) youth are not afforded the same support systems as other minority groups within the classroom. I have noticed that students who self- identified as a member of the LGBTQ community were less engaged, had lower overall grades, and were frequently victimized by both students and faculty at times. I believed that I could increase the overall mental and physical health in the classroom by instilling supportive means that would translate inside and outside of the classroom. From both personal experiences as a member of the LGBTQ community and students’ current challenges, I was able to implement five classroom supports in support of LGBTQ students. The purpose of this article is to advocate for these students and share positive strategies to support them in the classroom.
Recommended Citation
Beverly, X (2023). Supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered and queer (LGBTQ) youth in southern middle schools. South Carolina Association for Middle Level Education Journal, 133-137.