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https://www.nami.org/Advocacy/Policy-Priorities/Improving-Health/Mental-Health-in-Schools

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NAMI believes that public and private elementary, middle and high schools should provide and/or facilitate the provision of appropriate mental health services to our nation's children.

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https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/mental-health/school-psychology-and-mental-health/comprehensive-school-based-mental-and-behavioral-health-services-and-school-psychologists

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National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)

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Mentally healthy children are more successful in school and life. Good mental health is critical to children's success in school and life. Research demonstrates that students who receive social-emotional and mental and behavioral health support achieve better academically. School climate, classroom behavior, engagement in learning, and students' sense of connectedness and well-being all improve as well. Mental health is not simply the absence of mental illness but also encompasses wellness promotion; social, emotional, and behavioral health; and the ability to cope with life's challenges. Left unmet, mental health problems are linked to costly negative outcomes such as academic and behavior problems, dropping out, and delinquency. Mental and behavioral health problems not only affect students' short-term classroom engagement, but also interfere with long-term development of positive relationships and work-related skills.

There is a growing and unmet need for mental and behavioral health services for children and youth. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, one in five children and adolescents experience a mental health problem during their school years. Examples include stress, anxiety, bullying, family problems, depression, learning disability, and alcohol and substance abuse. Serious mental health problems, such as self-injurious behaviors and suicide, are on the rise, particularly among youth. Unfortunately, many children and youth do not receive the help they need, and disparities in access to care exist among low-income communities and minoritized youth. Among the 3.8 million adolescents ages 12-17 who reported a major depressive episode in the past year, nearly 60% did not receive any treatment, according to a 2019 report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Of the adolescents who do get help, nearly two thirds do so only in school.

Schools are an ideal place to provide mental and behavioral health services to children and youth. Schools provide an ideal context for prevention, intervention, positive development, and regular communication between school and families. Schools also offer caring relationships and regular, consistent connections between students and staff both in person and virtually. School-employed mental health professionals (i.e., school psychologists, school counselors, school social workers, and school nurses) know the students, parents, and other staff, which contributes to accessibility of services. Research shows that students are more likely to seek counseling when services are available in schools. In some cases, such as rural areas, schools provide the only mental health services in the community. Comprehensive, culturally responsive school mental health services can help address inequities in access and help reduce the stigma associated with receiving mental health services by making it part of the fabric of the school system.

Comprehensive school mental and behavioral health services support the mission and purpose of schools: learning. All services provided in schools should be appropriate to the learning environment; those that are not risk being ineffective or even counterproductive. Just as children are not simply small adults, schools are not merely private clinics with white boards. Being trained to work within the school culture is essential to being effective (and cost-effective). School psychologists have specialized training in child development, mental health, learning, diversity, culturally responsive services, and school systems and law. Their unique expertise lies in how these elements interact to shape children's behavior, learning, and overall adjustment.

Comprehensive school mental health services are essential to creating and sustaining safe schools. Increased access to mental health services in schools is vital to improving the physical and psychological safety of our students and schools, as well as academic performance and problem-solving skills. Culturally responsive school mental health supports that encompass social-emotional learning, mental wellness, behavioral health, resilience, and positive connections between students and adults are essential to creating a school culture in which students feel safe and empowered to report safety concerns, which is proven to be among the most effective school safety strategies. Additionally, in the aftermath of a crisis, school-employed mental health professionals provide supports that facilitate a return to normalcy, are sustainable, and can help to identify and work with students with more intense or ongoing needs.

Providing a continuum of school mental and behavioral health services is critical to effectively addressing the breadth of students' needs. Comprehensive mental health services are most effective when provided through a multitiered system of supports (MTSS). MTSS encompasses the continuum of need, enabling schools to promote mental wellness for all students, identify and address problems before they escalate or become chronic, and provide increasingly intensive, data-driven services for individual students as needed. Access to adequate staffing of school-employed mental health professionals, like school psychologists, is essential to the quality and effectiveness of these services.

School psychologists provide a continuum of services that connect mental health, behavior and learning, school and home, and school and community services. Meeting the full continuum of student needs requires collaboration and coordination. Typically, community providers offer supplementary or intensive services that go beyond school capacities. An MTSS approach facilitates collaboration while ensuring that services provided in school are appropriate to the learning context and those that are provided after school hours are appropriately linked to and supported in the school setting. Partnerships are most effective when they are coordinated by school-employed mental health professionals, are defined by clear memoranda of understanding, and reinforce an appreciation for the unique contribution each group makes to creating more seamless and comprehensive service delivery. This not only reduces gaps, redundancy, and conflict, it also reduces stress on families and supports their roles as primary caregivers and decision makers regarding their child's development.

School psychologists are part of a team of school-employed mental health professionals who provide these services. Improving staffing ratios for these professionals is critical to adequately supporting students' mental and behavioral health. For more information on school-based mental health services and the role of school psychologists, visit www.nasponline.org.

Please cite this document as:

National Association of School Psychologists. (2021). Comprehensive School-Based Mental and Behavioral Health Services and School Psychologists [handout]. Author.

© 2021, National Association of School Psychologists, 4340 East West Highway, Suite 402, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301-657-0270, www.nasponline.org

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Comprehensive School-Based Mental and Behavioral Health Services and School Psychologists

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Mentally healthy children are more successful in school and life. Good mental health is critical to children's success in school and life. Research demonstrates that students who receive social-emotional and mental and behavioral health support achieve better academically. School climate, classroom behavior, engagement in learning, and students' sense of connectedness and well-being all improve as well.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Czg_9C7gw0o

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Is Social Media Hurting Your Mental Health? | Bailey Parnell | TEDxRyersonU

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https://www.unicef.org/coronavirus/8-teacher-tips-student-mental-health

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As adults, we all have diverse needs and different ways of coping with stressful situations. For children, it is the same. Some children will have dealt well with restrictions and school closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. For others, it is challenging to cope with all the changes and uncertainty. Some children will return to school having experienced some level of stress, anxiety, isolation and grief. Some may have experienced increased violence at home.

School teachers and personnel are critical in supporting children's transition back to in-person classroom learning, particularly after extended periods of school closure. In addition to continuing to use the different skills teachers have been using to ensure their students' learning and emotional well-being while schools were closed, the following suggestions might be helpful when schools reopen:

1. Listen to children's concerns

COVID-19 and school closures impacted many children and adolescents' mental health and well-being. As teachers, it is essential to listen to students' concerns and demonstrate understanding as well as empathy. Offer your students the opportunity to have a one-to-one conversation with you to reconnect and discuss any concerns that might have arisen when their school was closed. If a child shares anything that is particularly concerning, please follow the protection or child safeguarding systems in place.

2. Check how children are doing

Before teaching new academic content to students, teachers and school personnel should take time to check how children are doing. Remember that children may have difficulty concentrating at first or may need more time to get back into the routine of learning. Provide opportunities for children to take breaks, move around, and re-connect with their friends and peers.

3. Provide children with accurate information around COVID-19

As children return to school, they may have different thoughts and questions about COVID-19. Children want and need factual information. Use child-friendly and age-appropriate resources available in your country/region that is based on scientific evidence to respond to children's questions about COVID-19 accurately.

While it is important to acknowledge the scale of what is happening globally, make sure to emphasize all the efforts made and precautions taken to reduce risks in the school reopening plans. Do not forget to remind children of school safety protocols, including what to do in case there is a COVID-19 case detected in the classroom.

4. Seek suggestions from children on how to create a welcoming, safe and comfortable classroom

Engage children in making the classroom a welcoming, safe and comfortable space. When doing so, make sure to respect school safety procedures and use available material resources.

Children can provide suggestions; help decorate the walls of the classroom with colourful and welcoming messages and work in small groups so they can support each other to catch up on learning. Let them know that being supportive of each other will help them get through this together. Remember to praise children for their contributions and efforts. Teachers can foster feelings of safety and security by interacting and developing positive relationships with each student and using routines during the day to help children feel safe and secure.

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8 ways teachers can support students' mental health during COVID-19 school returns

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Transitioning back to in-person classroom learning during COVID-19

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In today's competitive academic environment, being a student can be stressful. But managing the many responsibilities of school while struggling with a mental health issue can be even more challenging. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 1 in 5 adults in the United States are diagnosed with some form of mental illness. Yet the stigma attached to mental illness prevents many from seeking the appropriate treatment, raising the need for increased awareness about mental health resources for students.

Common Mental Health Issues and Resources for Students

The following are several common mental health issues that students face along with some helpful resources.

Depression

An estimated 300 million people are affected by depression globally. This condition is commonly characterized by sadness, a loss of interest and enjoyment in everyday activities, feelings of low self-worth, and poor concentration, among other symptoms. Depression is often recurrent or chronic and can manifest through physical stress on the body in various ways.
Key Facts About Mental Disorders Rising Teen Depression Depression in Children Ages 6-12 What to Know About Childhood Depression Tips for Parents on Coping with a Child's Depression Diagnosis
Anxiety

While there are many types and manifestations of anxiety, the most commonly diagnosed condition is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). People with GAD experience excessive worry and stress on more days than not for a period of at least six months. The anxiety can occur in relation to a variety of activities or events, and even simply in anticipation of situations. Common symptoms are physical discomfort, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and trouble sleeping.
Childhood Anxiety Treating Anxiety in Children 6 Types of Anxiety in Children What Signs of Childhood Anxiety Should Parents Look For? Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety
Panic Disorder

Students with panic disorder are most commonly affected by periodic apprehension or panic attacks, which can present in a variety of ways in the body. The disorder affects about 6 million adults, or 2.7% of the U.S. population, and is twice as likely to affect women as men. Panic disorder can cause students to avoid social situations, as well as other situations (school, work, public speaking, romantic relationships), for fear of having attacks.
Panic Attacks In Children: Types, Symptoms, And Remedies Home Management Strategies for Panic Disorder Effect of Childhood Trauma and Panic Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD can manifest in obsessions or compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted thoughts that dominate the mind; they often originate in the mind and are not caused by an external situation. A compulsion is the inability to resist doing something. OCD affects 2.2 million adults, or 1% of the U.S. population, and typically begins at a young age.
4 Things Parents Get Wrong About OCD (Podcast) Guide to Helping Your Child with OCD (PDF) Childhood OCD: The Invisible Disorder How OCD Differs in Children and Adults Childhood Moral OCD
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects about 3.5% of the U.S. population. People exposed to various situations are at risk for PTSD, including survivors of: childhood sexual and emotional abuse; war, violence, and torture; and accidents and disasters. It can commonly affect people who have experienced life-threatening illnesses and traumatic childbirth, as well as members of the military and first responders.
Psychotherapies and PTSD PTSD in Ages 6 and Under PTSD from Domestic Violence and Childhood Abuse PTSD and Suicidal Tendencies in Kids
Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) causes significant fear in social situations, which often results in distress and the inability to function. SAD is often associated with a fear of being embarrassed or judged by peers and various insecurities. Typically, SAD begins during adolescence and often goes untreated because it isn't as widely recognized as other common psychological disabilities.
How to Help Kids with Social Anxiety Social Anxiety at Preschool Age Signs of Social Anxiety Disorder Parenting with Social Anxiety
Phobias

A phobia is defined as an extreme and persistent fear of a specific object or situation that is out of proportion to the actual danger or threat. Phobias affect nearly 10% of the U.S. population, and typically symptoms begin during childhood. Phobias can be related to a variety of real and theoretical situations but are usually grouped into several subtypes, including animal, natural environment, and situational.
Specific Phobias Age-by-Age Guide to Phobias for Kids The Ultimate List of Phobias and Fears Normal Childhood Fears
Bipolar Disorder

People affected by bipolar disorder experience periods of mania and depression. When manic, they may feel anxious, possibly more capable of achieving realistic or unrealistic things, or a decreased need to sleep. When depressed, they experience typical symptoms of depression but may experience it at a level that affects their personal and professional relationships and responsibilities in a more serious way. Bipolar disorder causes extreme swings between these moods or states of being.
Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder Early Onset Bipolar FAQ Reducing the Stigma of Bipolar Disorder
Substance Abuse Disorder

Substance abuse disorder is characterized as a disease that causes an individual to become unable to control their use of drugs or alcohol, despite it making them sick or causing them harm. People develop a tolerance to drugs and alcohol when under the frequent influence of them and begin using higher doses or amounts of it to feel well.
Drug Adduction (substance use disorder) The 10 Most Common Signs of Drug Use and Addiction Treatments for Substance Abuse Disorders
Hotlines for Students in Need

Identifying the Root Cause to Help Create Effective Solutions.

Many students often struggle with social and emotional issues during their coming-of-age years, as well as into adulthood. Although some instances may be attributed to heredity and genes, many others are caused by external factors that serve to compound and worsen the fragility of individuals whose emotional well-being may already be compromised.

Identifying some of these pressure points can help families, educators, and mental health professionals approach their treatment options from a mindful perspective. Many of these agitators include:

Bullying (both online and real-world)

Weight concerns

Sexual assault or intimidation

Physical/emotional abuse

COVID-19 isolation

Racial injustice and profiling

Gender dysphoria

Peer pressure

For those looking to provide frontline treatment to individuals most in need, Maryville University offers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. Under the guidance of expert faculty, students learn ways to provide effective treatment that considers each patient's unique history, addresses their current needs, and provides long-term solutions for their overall health and well-being.

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Mental Health Resources for Students and Educators | Maryville Online

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According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 1 in 6 people in the United States are diagnosed with some form of mental illness. While awareness about mental illness continues to rise, society has a long way to go to reduce the stigma, requiring increased resources for student mental health.

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https://flearningstudio.com/examples-of-mental-health-educational-videos-for-students/

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Mental health education for students has never been more urgent than now. With the rise of technology and social media, the new generation can face a lot of problematic issues at very young ages. But not like physical health, for which schools and families have clear instructions for children to practice, mental issues are vague in terms of identification and treatment. Wouldn't it be great if there is an interesting medium for educating young people about mental health that is both informative and easy to understand? Well, say no more! The animation is the one you're looking for.

Why should we use animation for mental health education?

The brain, where most of the mental issues occur, is not visible for normal people to see. Hence, to explain the complicated locations, chemical reactions, etc happening inside the brain, we need a simulator. And that's when animation comes to rescue. By using animated resources like videos, GIFs, images, separately, or integrated, we can delightfully provide pupils accurate information in an attractive way. Here's how animation can help:

Effectively explain abstract concepts: visual explanation helps simplify invisible mental health topics that plain-text can't help.

Trigger students' interest: visuals are designed in a childlike style in order to - engage students and guide them towards valuable knowledge.

No word required: With absolutely no words at all, or sometimes there are short reads for secondary and high school students, it requires just a little bit of effort to watch.

Keep students stay focused: Thanks to a simple plot but impressive visuals, bite-sized video lessons help our young audiences focus despite their short attention span.

Now let's go deeper into how animation benefits mental health education in specific examples below.

8 best examples of mental health educational video for students

As age differences affect mental health literacy, here we divide into 4 groups of the school-age audience:

Kindergarten students

Primary students

Middle school students

High school students

Take a look at these below examples from top animated eLearning video production companies:

For Kindergarten students

1. Talking Mental Health

Before we go into the actual mental health problems and we have to make sure that children are aware of them. Often adults take for granted the language and concepts that we have so long understood - like sympathy - but children don't really grasp. This is why a video like this from Anna Freud National Center for Children and Families can be very helpful.

It talks about the emotions that people have - whether short-term or long-term - and how they deal with it - from taking time to themselves to seeking consolation from others. By showing children that these things happen to these characters, the video teaches children that it's all right to be having tough days, and there are always people around to help you through them. It's a conversation starter on a topic that can be complicated and mentally exhausting.

The mental health educational video is in stop-motion style - sort of like the little stick-man sketches that children draw on the corner of their notebook before flipping through to see him running. This, combined with the child-like illustrations of the characters and the voiceover by little children themselves, makes the video more friendly and relatable. In most cases, conversations are more effective when the listener sees themselves in the speaker, rather than feel subordinated to them.

A small fault is perhaps the lack of background music in moments where there isn't any voice-over. Those moments aren't excessively long, but it's enough to allow the children's attention to falter away from the video.

2. Tom has Separation Anxiety Disorder

This animated video from TeenMentalHealth.Org delicately tackles a common problem among kindergarten-aged children: being afraid of new things. The root of this fear is from a friendly character named Worry Dragon. This positive approach to anxiety relieves the tension of mental health towards children, those who are very sensitive and vulnerable. With ordinary life scenes like the first day at school, making new friends, kindergarten students are presented how their unreasonable worries form. These fears will go away if you talk to your mom or an adult, and the Worry Dragon will be gone.

The warm colors of the animation create a soothing feeling for kids. A conversational voice-over is also a plus point for this video.

For Primary students

3. Lucy's Blue Day

Perhaps you've noticed a trend: when it comes to making a video for children, colors are very important. "Lucy's Blue Day" uses the color of her hair to signal her emotions, but this time, the emotion being focused on is a sad one. When her hair turns blue, Lucy doesn't understand why or how to get it into another color. This imagery signifies depression, and how little control someone may have over the waves of emotions that come and go.

The animation style employed here is vector animation, which is something that even beginners can quickly learn to do. It's not as dynamic as professional, hand-drawn animation, but it's a sufficient addition to the rhyming story told in this video. In other words, if you have a very strong, memorable script, you can opt for a simpler animation style.

4. Child Mental Health

This video from ShinShin Tang also is an introduction to matters of emotion, but it takes a slightly more technical approach than the previous video. That may sound strange, since in the video, the main character is a fictional creature, and you'd expect the video to take a more imaginative, dreamy approach.

The video starts with a scenario, where the main character is made aware of his anxiety and nervousness. The video then goes on to explain why we feel things - how emotions come from the brain and can affect other parts of our body. Subsequently, by using scales and lively animation, the video demonstrates how young children can pay attention to simple things - like whether their stomach is churning - to come to terms with their own emotions.

An animation like this mixes elements of the real and fictional worlds to tune in to children's wavelengths and wild imaginations. And while adults worry that children can't make a distinction between what's real and what's not, many psychological studies have proven that this is not true. This means that watching a video like this is not only enjoyable for the children - they will also be able to distill important information because they're more focused on it.
Recommended reading:
Shinshin Tang case study: Animation empowers mental health education for adolescence
For Middle School students

5. Inside out

You may have heard about this famous animation film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. The movie tells the story of an 11-year-old girl named Riley who has to leave her Midwest life behind when her family moves to San Francisco. The special element about 'Inside Out' is that the primary emotions in Riley's head, as well as her parents, are clearly depicted and visualized as 5 different characters: Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust, and Sadness. Erin Shifflett wrote: " Inside Out, bravely delves into that intricate world in a way that effectively captures the nuances of the way people feel and think-and maybe helps them understand why they act the way they do sometimes." Years of intensive research and consultants from top-notch psychologists were spent, resulted in various honorable awards.

The video above is a shortcut from the film trailer and producers/director Pete Docter's acceptance speech at the 2016 Academy Awards.

6. We all have mental health

Targeted to teenagers from 11-14, Anna Freud NCCF produced an animated video with 2 different stories of Sasha and Andre coping with mental issues. The video aims to give teenagers a common language and understanding of mental health and how we should treat it.

Appropriate visuals, use of language, and small details like social media, smartphones make it more relevant to middle school students. The introduction to seeking support from mental health professions is very valuable for adolescents, those who are going through puberty with major changes in physical and mental health. In this stage, teens have to deal with complicated matters that sometimes can be overwhelming, therefore extra care from experts are needed.

For high school students

7. Teen Health: Mental Health

Statistics, data, and scientific facts in this animated video from Penn State PRO Wellness introduce young adults about mental health. 20% of the teen population suffers from a severe mental illness, that's an alarming situation. Thus, providing help for them is just as vital as raising awareness.

8. Overcoming anxiety - BBC

Taking a turn from the light-hearted animations we've seen so far in this post, let's look through this longer but elegantly animated video from the BBC. The video jumps back and forth between two student's stories, both struggling with anxiety, which leads them to question their abilities and hinders them from fulfilling their potentials.

From the outset, you can already see that this video is solemn. The color scheme is dark, the character designs are realistic, although the experiences of the characters are emphasized by dramatic motions. For instance, when a character mentions feeling drowned out or isolated, the animation zooms into her and blurs the surrounding world, literally making it look like she's surrounded by water. The animation makes unseeable sensations visible so as to help those who don't know these emotions, or those who can't describe them, better understand them. The constant movement throughout the video also signifies an urgency to the problem, demonstrating that it's happening to people right now, today and every day.

With these solemn features, this video is definitely made for a primary student audience. But, when shown to older pupils who are better with grappling with emotions, who can focus on a topic for a longer time period, then this would surely move them into sympathizing with classmates and friends who may also be struggling with anxiety.

Conclusion

Students are among the most vulnerable people in society. They are not fully developed, therefore these young generations can get confused when it comes to complicated and vogue problems like mental health. Animation is an effective medium to educate them in an entertaining way, making sure the scientific information won't turn them away.
Read further:

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8 best examples of mental health educational video for students - F. Learning Studio

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Mental health education for students has never been more urgent than now. With the rise of technology and social media, the new generation can face a lot of problematic issues at very young ages. But not like physical health, for which schools and families have clear instructions for children to practice, mental issues are vague in terms of identification and treatment.

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https://www.secondstep.org/

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Social-Emotional Learning Programs | Second Step

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Discover Second Step, an evidence-based social-emotional learning curriculum that fosters students’ emotional intelligence, empathy, and problem-solving skills.

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https://studentbehaviorblog.org/how-can-we-incorporate-mental-health-education-into-schools/

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Mental health is a critical part of students' overall health and well-being.

Students today face a range of demands that can impact their mental health. From meeting high academic expectations to navigating the world of social media to maintaining relationships with their peers, students often have busy schedules that result in a lack of sleep and self-care. Many students are also dealing with distress, crises, and trauma in addition to typical life stressors. Mental health challenges can negatively impact all areas of functioning in students, contributing to social, emotional, behavioral, and academic problems.

Unfortunately, recent statistics indicate that student mental health is a prevalent and serious concern. According to a national survey, about 50% of youth between the ages of 13-18 experiences a mental health disorder at some point in their life. In addition, suicide is currently the second-leading cause of death for people ages 10-34 and during 1999-2016, suicide rates increased in nearly every state, including more than 30% increases in 25 states.

Schools have a unique and critical role to play in supporting student mental health and well-being in proactive, comprehensive, and collaborative ways. The just-released Advancing Comprehensive School Mental Health Systems report provides insight from national experts to help guide local, state, and national efforts in advancing comprehensive school mental health systems. While many schools are incorporating some aspect of mental health practices, currently only 3 states-Florida, New York, and Virginia-mandate mental health education for students (for grades 6-12 in Florida, K-12 in New York, and 9-10 in Virginia).

Mandated mental health curricula is one significant systematic step to address and improve student mental health and well-being at school, but what this actually looks like can vary greatly. We've identified 5 "T" strategies for states, districts, and schools to consider as their educators join the movement to promote and support student mental health:

T Strategy

Why is this important?

Helpful resources

1) TALKING about mental health
Students need open and ongoing conversations to help decrease the stigma surrounding mental health. The earlier these conversations start the better, since around 50% of all mental health illness begins before the age of 14, and many cases go undetected and untreated. School-wide strategies to increase awareness, such as providing mental health and well-being tips in the morning announcements or assemblies, can go a long way in promoting productive conversations.

2) Providing appropriate TRAINING for teachers and staff
Educators need training to appropriately identify and respond to signs of mental health issues. Teachers are often the first adults that students turn to in times of distress or crisis, but many report feeling unprepared to support students directly or refer out for additional services. Schools need resources to provide in-depth training and on-site mental health support services to comprehensively and effectively address student needs.

Ending the Silence presentations are free for students, staff, and families to learn about mental health and necessary steps to help a loved one in need (Source: The National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI)

School Mental Health Teachers Training Guide provides educators with an overview of the most common mental health illnesses, including key questions that educators can ask students and how to address specific issues (Source: Teen Mental Health.org)

Mental Health First Aid is a national program that teaches the skills necessary to respond to the signs of mental illness and substance use

3) Incorporating mental health into TEACHING
Mental health education can be integrated into academics and classwork in a way that doesn't overly burden teachers. For example, a Social Studies lesson may identify and discuss mental health topics (e.g., trauma, stigma) in books that students are reading. Younger students may learn about how to identify, describe, and manage emotions, while older students may learn about and discuss social implications of different mental health issues.

4) Providing helpful TOOLS for students
School counselors play a central role in providing direct services to students in need. However, the average student-to-school-counselor ratio is 482:1, nearly double the 250:1 ratio recommended by the American School Counselor Association. Without easy access to a counselor, educators might consider other mental-health building tools that can be incorporated into the school day, such as:

Mindfulness

Relaxation techniques

Physical exercise

Art (visual arts, theater, music)

"Break" or "Time Out" space allowing students a quiet area to manage their emotions or de-escalate

Introducing Mindfulness to Schools Guide to introduce mindfulness to students, classrooms, and schools (Source: Calm.com)

Mental health poster for students to check in about their feelings created by a teacher (download it for free here)

Teaching tools including practical strategies to support children's emotions and behaviors (Source: Center for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation, ECMHC)

5) TAKING CARE of teachers
In addition to addressing students' mental health needs, schools also need to make sure to support educators' mental health needs. Teachers experience high levels of daily stress, which also has a negative impact on students' social adjustment and academic performance. Various organizational and/or individual-level programs, including workplace wellness programs, teacher mentoring, and practices like mindfulness can help.

Teacher Stress and Health Brief that examines causes of teacher stress, effects on teachers, school, and students, and strategies to help teachers (Source: Robert Wood Johnson Foundation)

Self-care tip sheet for school staff (Source: The National Child Traumatic Stress Network, NCTSN)

Check out our blog post on how to prevent and reduce symptoms of teacher stress and burnout.

School is the ideal place for all types of learning to occur, including mental health education that aims to destigmatize mental health issues. Helping students and staff identify warning signs, having supportive conversations, and providing a range of tools and supports that promote overall health and well-being are all important strategies. Want to learn even more about ways to support student mental health? Check out the resources below!

Other Relevant Resources

Advancing Comprehensive School Mental Health Systems report: Guidance from the Field provides insight from national experts to help guide local, state, and national efforts to strengthen school mental health efforts and to start to understand and bring consensus to the quality domains of school mental health. (Source: National Center for School Mental Health, NCSMH)

A Guide to Campus Mental Health Action Planning provides mental health and suicide prevention strategies for teens and resources for student help-seeking behaviors. (Source: The Jed Foundation, TJF, and the Education Development Center, Inc, EDC)

Toolkit for Mental Health Promotion and Suicide Prevention provides information for K-12 schools to promote student emotional and mental health and prevent suicide. It also discusses promotion of mental health and wellness, intervention in a suicidal crisis, and postvention response to a suicidal death. (Source: Heard Alliance)

The Executive Summary of Aspen Institute's Report, From a Nation at Risk to a Nation at Hope includes recommendations from the National Commission on Social, Emotional, & Academic Development on how to promote children's social, emotional, and cognitive development in schools and communities. (Source: The Aspen Institute)

Substance Use Prevention: A Resource Guide for School Staff provides teachers, principals, and other school staff with a comprehensive approach to identifying, addressing, and reducing student drug use. (Source: The Office of National Drug Control Policy, ONDCP)

Topics: Externalizing behaviors Internalizing behaviors Mental health Social-emotional learning

Tags: Mental Health Awareness Mental Health Education

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How can we incorporate mental health education into schools? Consider the 5 T's.

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Students today face a range of demands that can impact their mental health. From meeting high academic expectations to navigating the world of social media to maintaining relationships with their peers, students often have busy schedules that result in a lack of sleep and self-care.

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During the past school year, two different people told me they decided to become teachers in part because they hoped to support LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning) students. The odds are that all classrooms include LGBTQ students, although many aren't yet comfortable being open about their sexualities or gender identities.

It's important for schools to be welcoming places for all students. After all, as the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) notes, "public schools often lead the way for the broader society in modeling inclusiveness and pluralism." Here are some steps teachers can take to ensure LGBTQ students feel safe, welcome, and included in their classrooms.

1. Post Safe Space Signs

You can designate your classroom a "safe zone" through stickers or posters on your classroom door. This lets students know that you're LGBTQ-friendly, and are willing to challenge anti-LGBTQ language or harassment. In addition, the AFT states that safe zone stickers let students know that teachers, counselors, and administrators are "open to discussion of LGBTQ issues in the context of classwork or just in conversation."
Further reading: New Types of Extracurricular Activities: The Culture Club
The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network's (GLSEN) biennial National School Climate Survey revealed that "the safe space campaign, like enumerated antibullying policies, makes a tremendous difference in LGBTQ students' perceptions that their schools are safe and that their teachers are adults they can trust." My students have told me that seeing the sticker on my door just makes them feel better. Teaching Tolerance notes that a safe zone sign posted in your classroom or office "signals to LGBTQ youth that you've got their backs."

2. Start an LGBTQ Organization at Your School

The AFT points out that school-based extracurricular groups have the "potential to shape school climate, address inequality, and affect student performance." LGBTQ student organizations show great promise in "reducing discrimination against LGBTQ students, promoting their well-being, and fostering safe and affirming school environments." These groups provide support for LGBTQ students, and they can help create awareness in schools and help to counteract discrimination. They can also ensure that school policies and curriculum are inclusive. Offering to start such a group at your school or becoming an advisor for an existing one can help ensure that students have positive experiences at school.

3. Stand Up Against Homophobia

GLSEN reports that research has shown "LGBTQ youth face bullying at significantly higher rates than their peers, and the consequences, such as increased rates of suicide, can be heartbreaking."

Educators can help change that. GLSEN provides lesson plans on bullying, bias, and diversity that teachers can use to help educate their students. Students of all ages sometimes use homophobic words or expressions in the classroom. It's important for teachers to let students know that such speech is unacceptable. Teaching Tolerance provides an activity guide to help teachers handle remarks like this in the classroom.

4. Integrate LGBTQ Topics into the Curriculum

The Human Rights Campaign suggests that teachers integrate LGBTQ people and topics into the classroom. When assigning topics for science, history, and art, be sure to include LGBTQ people like Harvey Milk (politician) or Alan Turing (computer scientist). GLSEN also provides an LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum so that students can see themselves in their lessons, and so all students can have an authentic understanding of the world around them.

5. Pursue Professional Development

Workshops and professional development with experts can help to ensure that your school is inclusive, safe, and affirming for LGBTQ youth. Effective professional development can help to educate staff on how to handle harassment and bullying, and it can provide a place to share resources and best practices to ensure safe and respectful schools.
Further reading: Creating an Engaged and Positive Classroom Culture
Schools should be a safe and welcoming place for all students. These steps provide a great starting point for ensuring LGBTQ students are well-supported in schools so that their experiences are happy, healthy, and educational.

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5 Things You Can Do to Support Your LGBTQ Students

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During the past school year, two different people told me they decided to become teachers in part because they hoped to support LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning) students. The odds are that all classrooms include LGBTQ students, although many aren't yet comfortable being open about their sexualities or gender identities.

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The Equality Act, which would prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex, sexual orientation and gender identity, is moving to the Senate after being passed by the House of Representatives - and it could affect what's taught in classrooms.

The Equality Act would enable protections within education, particularly on how teachers implement LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum.

"It signals to educators who are not part of our community that they, too, can hopefully implement language, representation and curriculum that is LGBTQ inclusive," Sophia Arredondo, director of Education and Youth Programs at the LGBTQ+ education advocacy group GLSEN, told USA TODAY.

LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum is lacking in many classrooms. Nationally, 19.4% of respondents to GLSEN's 2019 National School Climate Survey said they had been taught positive representations of LGBTQ+ people, history or events in their schools.
LGBTQ protections: Equality Act passes in House but faces uncertain future in Senate
In California, where the first U.S. law mandating LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum (the FAIR Education Act) was passed nearly 10 years ago, 31% of students reported being taught this history in 2019.

When it was passed, advocates hoped the bill would lead to equitable and complete learning about the contributions and accomplishments of LGBT people throughout history and into the present.

But the FAIR Education Act was roadblocked in California for years.

Less than 20% of teachers integrate LGBTQ history in the state, said Erik Adamian, associate director of education for the ONE Archives Foundation.

"There's not this base to build knowledge on," he said.

The ONE Archives Foundation is the host of the largest repository of LGBTQ+ resources in the world, housed at the University of Southern California. The oldest LGBTQ+ rights organization in the nation, it works with teachers across the country to introduce LGBTQ+-inclusive content into the classroom.

"LGBTQ+ history is American history and world history. And it's time that our education system approaches it as such by making the space and providing the resources needed for teaching the next generation a more inclusive and just version of history," Adamian said. "But you know, I would also imagine that's the reason why there's resistance in it."

Up until the late 2000s, most LGBTQ+-inclusive teaching was pushed aside or hidden from students - if it wasn't actively discouraged by states. Five states - Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Texas - have laws that forbid teachers from discussing LGBTQ+ topics in a positive light. In contrast, five states - California, Colorado, Illinois, New Jersey and Oregon, as well as some counties in Maryland and Virginia - have laws that mandate LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum.
LGBTQ-inclusive books are hard to find. So these groups started sending them to schools.
Some laws require that teachers portray LGBTQ topics in a negative light.

Even in states where restrictive laws don't exist, some teachers don't feel comfortable teaching these topics because of lack of support on the micro level - within their school districts, from their principal or from the parents. If there was pushback from one of these levels, there could be actual repercussions, said Shannon Snapp, professor of psychology at California State University-Monterey Bay.

The Equality Act could change that. It would safeguard job protections for LGBTQ teachers and could empower other educators to teach inclusively without fear of being fired, Arredondo said.

LGBTQ students without the support of inclusive curriculum are more likely to face harassment and bullying at school. Research shows having LGBTQ storylines in the classroom affects all students positively, not just those who think they may be LGBTQ.

Students in schools with LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum are 82% more likely to report that their classmates accept LGBTQ people than students in schools without LGBTQ-inclusive curriculums, according to the GLSEN National School Climate Survey.

Jaiden Blancaflor, a California high school senior, vividly remembers the impacts to learning about the Stonewall riots as a part of his freshman advanced placement U.S. history class.

"There are so many figures like Duke Ellington['s collaborators] and Marsha P. Johnson that so many people overlook," he said. His teachers "always made sure to include if [historical figures] identified as something because it's important that we have historical figures that we can relate to."

Blancaflor said inclusive education in schools benefits the general population.

"Especially since it's history, you can't really just disregard parts of it," said Blancaflor, who serves on GLSEN's National Student Council.

A survey from the Trevor Project, a national group focused on suicide prevention among LGBTQ young people, shows that positive school environments make the biggest difference in kids' lives, compared with other environments such as home, community and work.

Sam Long, a high school science teacher from Colorado, told USA TODAY students are more interested in his classes when he talks about the diverse gender, sex and sexuality presented in nature.

Students who aren't taught that way "either check out mentally or check out physically and don't attend class," he said.
Want to tackle LGBTQ bullying? Start a Gay-Straight Alliance at your high school, study says
"My concern for science students who don't have a teacher and a curriculum that is gender-inclusive is that we're missing out on a lot of opportunities to support and to validate our students," he said. "We could give them the one reason that they need to continue going to school."

In GLSEN's 2019 survey, about a third of LGBTQ+ students who considered dropping out of school said it was related to a hostile climate created by school policies and practices. LGBTQ+ students who feel safe and supported at school have better educational outcomes.
Contributing: Claire Thornton
Long is on Commission 1192, which develops recommendations for the expansion of inclusive civics and history education requirements in Colorado.

For educators to integrate LGBTQ+-inclusive curriculum, Long said, they "have to stop teaching the way you were taught" and "actively seek authenticity."

The Equality Act would help with that mission, Arredondo said: "And for students, I think it also signals that they can show up as their full selves."

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Kids aren't learning LGBTQ history. The Equality Act might change that.

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The Equality Act, which would prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex, sexual orientation and gender identity, is moving to the Senate after being passed by the House of Representatives - and it could affect what's taught in classrooms. The Equality Act would enable protections within education, particularly on how teachers implement LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum.

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https://www.usatoday.com/videos/news/justthefaqs/2021/05/26/sex-and-gender-identity-what-means-intersex-nonbinary/7453138002/

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Gender identity and sex: Find out how they differ based on science and spectrum

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There are dozens of different gender identities and three different types of sexes. Here's a look at the science and culture behind it all.

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A simple way to be an LGBTQ+ ally | Keegan Thoranin | TEDxLFHS

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Transgender students deserve to learn and thrive in school.

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https://libguides.spsd.org/lgbtqeducation/classroom

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1. Don't assume all students are straight and cisgender.

2. Don't assume being LGBTQ is a problem.

3. Don't "out" people. A student may be out with a few trusted people at school, but may not be out at home.

4. Allow students to self-identify. Labels may change as young people discover the identity that fits.

5. Don't make assumptions about students' gender identity.

6. Watch for connotative bias. Phrases like "sexual preference" or "alternative lifestyle" suggest a choice.

7. Consider the power of words. Phrases like "that's so gay" suggest being gay is bad.

8. Avoid negative expressions about gender (such as "man up," "you throw like a girl," "don't be a sissy").

9. Be careful about unintentional heterosexism (try "date" instead of boyfriend or girlfriend, "parents" for mom and dad, or "spouse" for husband or wife).

10. Confront bullying and bias.

Weinberg, Michael (2009). LGBT-Inclusive Language. English Journal, 98(4), 50-51.

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Digital Learning Commons: LGBTQ Education: Classroom Practices

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Don't assume all students are straight and cisgender. Don't assume being LGBTQ is a problem. Don't "out" people. A student may be out with a few trusted people at school, but may not be out at home. Allow students to self-identify. Labels may change as young people discover the identity that fits.

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https://www.accreditedschoolsonline.org/education-teaching-degree/lgbtq-youth/

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Meet the Experts
Dr. Deb Cohan
Dr. Deb Cohan, Assistant Professor of Sociology at University of South Carolina Beaufort with a specialization in Gender Studies. Former Board of Directors member at PFLAG.
Eugene Patron
Eugene Patron serves as the communications and marketing director for the Point Foundation. He focuses on creating connections and awareness and building support for a variety of causes and communities.

Introduction

According to the National School Climate Report, 86 percent of LGBTQ youth reported being harassed at school, compared to 27 percent of students overall. School years can be challenging for all students, yet those who identify as LGBTQ often face additional pressures or concerns. Within this guide, LGBTQ students can find resources and information about support systems available to help them navigate both high school and college environments.

A Safe Place to Learn

Incidents can take many forms, including physical harassment, emotional or mental abuse, stronger violence, or discrimination. As the Internet has grown to include the use of various social media platforms, cyber bullying has become an issue. Bullying Statistics found that 42 percent of LGBTQ youth have experienced cyber bullying, a rate three times higher than other students.

There is hope to shift the tide; GLSEN found that half of all youth don't understand that discriminatory language is hurtful, nor do they realize the negative consequences their words have specifically on LGBTQ youth. A few things everyone can do to maximize support for LGBTQ teens and college students include:

Create a supportive community

1 Many schools have student or faculty-led groups that champion and empower the LGBTQ community and align them with straight allies. These groups often promote advocacy and education for the larger student body and provide an outlet for socializing, finding support and encouragement, and talking about the challenges faced on and off campus.

LGBTQ students are also encouraged to seek out mentors on their campus who can not only speak to higher administration on their behalf, but also provide a listening ear and an older voice on the challenges they commonly face.

Create a supportive school campus

2 As further statistics and research emerge about the damaging effects of LGBTQ discrimination on school campuses, many are taking an active stance against prejudiced behavior. Whether enacting policies and disciplinary protocol for those who engage in this behavior or educating all students about the importance of equal rights for all students, a number of colleges are leading the charge in shifting thought and action. These institutions often have LGBTQ offices that encourage student advocacy, alumni relations, media awareness, and faculty support. These organizations may also hose events to educate the wider campus and provide counseling services to students facing discrimination. Advocate pulled together a list of the Top 10 trans-friendly colleges in America.

Build outside resources

3 Outside of campus-based programs and offices, there are many local community and online resources that help to create more welcoming learning and living environments for LGBTQ students. Whether operating as a national organization with local chapters or an individual center, these programs will often work alongside colleges to help students find housing, employment, and healthcare services.

LGBTQ+ Resources for All Students

In addition to numerous LGBTQ organizations focused on particular age groups, many general programs and initiatives exist, which seek to bolster community, encourage positive dialog, and ultimately security greater equality. Some of the best nationally recognized initiatives are listed in this section.

CenterLink
Founded with the mission to build sustainable LGBTQ community centers, this organization now has over 200 locations in 46 states and five countries. Aside from strengthening local LGBTQ communities, the organization also provides networking, technical assistance and training, and capacity building services.

GLAAD
With a national focus on leading conversations about equality for the LGBTQ community and informing the media narrative, this organization works with news and entertainment media of all formats and communications and digital strategy outlets to ensure the public is provided with powerful stories about the LGBTQ community that advocates for greater equality.

Gay & Lesbian International Sport Association
With an international reach, GLISA brings together international sports federations, human rights organizations, associations representing sport teams, clubs from major regions, and other stakeholders to facilitate partnerships for building bridges between sports and the LGBTQ community.

Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network
GLSEN's mission is simple: to ensure every member of school communities feel respected, regardless of their sexual orientation. This is accomplished through educating teachers, students and the public about the common pressures faced by LGBTQ students and working to remove barriers to success.

Get Equal
GE focuses on equipping the LGBTQ community and their allies to fight against inequalities and to push for progressive change. Whether organizing direct action efforts, hosting local community meetings, training members in tactics of direct action or providing professional consulting, the organization is committed to continuously fighting for equality.

Human Rights Campaign
HRC is the largest organization fighting for the civil rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans. The organization currently has over 1.5 million members, all focused on making true equality for all possible. The organization has a number of research publications outlining equality indexes on areas such as healthcare, employers, states and corporations.

Matthew Shepard Foundation
By erasing hate and building compassionate and accepting communities, the Matthew Shepard Foundation hopes to empower LGBTQ individuals to challenge and address discriminatory behavior in their schools, neighborhoods and homes.

National Center for Transgender Equality
Identifying as America's premier social justice advocacy organization for transgender individuals, NCTE works at the federal, state and local levels to leverage political capital and change laws encouraging discriminatory behavior. The organization has a particularly helpful "Know Your Rights" section of their website with information on housing, healthcare, employment, and more.

National Gay & Lesbian Task Force
Since 1973, NGLTF has focused on building the political capital of the LGBTQ community through activist training, advancing pro-LGBT legislation and raising the profile of LGBTQ interests and causes. The organization is also an excellent resource for learning about the beliefs and platforms of those running for public office in regards to LGBTQ interests.

PFLAG
Through support, education and advocacy efforts, PFLAG seeks to unite the LGBTQ community with friends, families and allies. By doing so, the organization hopes to further equality efforts and lessen discriminatory practices. Currently, there are more than 350 chapters and over 200,000 members.

TransYouth Family Allies
TYFA is focused on supporting children and families to create support systems offering encouragement and acceptance regardless of sexual orientation. Main areas of work include educating the public about discrimination, working to eliminate oppression and violence, and forming alliances to ensure support services are in place for LGBTQ individuals.

The organization has a number of outreach initiatives and resources to accomplish this mission.

LGBTQ+ Teens

Research has shown that LGBTQ students, no matter their level of education, have historically faced higher levels of discrimination than their straight peers. These numbers tend to be at their highest during the middle and high school years. A groundbreaking report by the Human Rights Campaign found that LGBTQ youth are twice as likely to have been physically assaulted, kicked or shoved at school. Meanwhile, 92 percent of LGBTQ students say they hear negative messages about being LGBTQ. Top sources for negative comments include school, the Internet and fellow students.

No student should ever have to experience discrimination or negative behavior, regardless of their sexual orientation. This becomes increasingly important as students start thinking about post-secondary options. A recent report found that nearly 14 percent of LGBTQ students who receive frequent verbal harassment decide not to go to college. Fortunately, many people believe this and countless organizations are working on behalf of LGBTQ teens to ensure these behaviors are eradicated over time. It's working: 77 percent of LGBTQ youth said they know things will get better. Below, students and their allies can find helpful resources and information to support them through these years.

The Attic Youth Center
This Philadelphia-based organization is an excellent example of how LGBTQ youth centers can empower and inspire local teens that identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning. Some of the services offered include life skills, mental health counseling, supportive programs, community engagement, and social activities. AYC also provides a number of resources at both the local and national level.

Gay Straight Alliance Networks
GSAs are student run clubs operating in both high school and middle schools that provide support, socialization, and activism activities for LGBTQ youth. The overarching goal is to fight against homophobia and transphobia; providing leadership and activist training for group members and encouraging them to advocate for nondiscriminatory policies and greater equality accomplishes this.

International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Youth and Student Organization
IGLYO is an internationally focused advocacy and activism organization focused on representing the interests of LGBTQ youth. To accomplish this mission, the organization hosts conferences, provides educational materials, and offers the general public many opportunities to get involved.

It Gets Better Project
The mission of the IGB Project is to give LGBT youth across the world hope that things do get better. In response to raised incidents of students committing suicide after being bullied in school, syndicated columnist Dan Savage created the organization to provide both inspiration and resources, including pledges and educational videos.

The Trevor Project
With suicide rates noticeably higher among LGBTQ youth than their straight peers, the mission of The Trevor Project is incredibly important. By providing a 24/7-crisis intervention service, online community, and educational programs, the organization seeks to be both life saving and life-affirming.

YouthPride
Since 2009, this organization has prevented 151 LGBTQ youth suicides through innovative programming and excellent resources. Whether offering daily after school activities or support and discussion groups, the Atlanta-based organization engages youth and empowers them to advocate for themselves. The organization also provides counseling and free HIV testing.

Local LGBTQ+ Centers

In addition to the larger organizations listed above, there are various LGBTQ Centers focused on serving local communities. Whether offering afterschool programs, counseling, mentoring, empowerment services or advocacy initiatives, these organizations provide crucial care at a pivotal time. These centers also frequently work with local schools to help create safer places for LGBTQ students to learn. Before visiting a center, students may have questions about their services. Some of these may include:

Create a supportive community

Many schools have student or faculty-led groups that champion and empower the LGBTQ community and align them with straight allies. These groups often promote advocacy and education for the larger student body and provide an outlet for socializing, finding support and encouragement, and talking about the challenges faced on and off campus. LGBTQ students are also encouraged to seek out mentors on their campus who can not only speak to higher administration on their behalf, but also provide a listening ear and an older voice on the challenges they commonly face.

Create a supportive school campus

As further statistics and research emerge about the damaging effects of LGBTQ discrimination on school campuses, many are taking an active stance against prejudiced behavior. Whether enacting policies and disciplinary protocol for those who engage in this behavior or educating all students about the importance of equal rights for all students, a number of colleges are leading the charge in shifting thought and action. These institutions often have LGBTQ offices that encourage student advocacy, alumni relations, media awareness, and faculty support. These organizations may also hose events to educate the wider campus and provide counseling services to students facing discrimination. Advocate pulled together a list of the Top 10 trans-friendly colleges in America.

Build outside resources

Outside of campus-based programs and offices, there are many local community and online resources that help to create more welcoming learning and living environments for LGBTQ students. Whether operating as a national organization with local chapters or an individual center, these programs will often work alongside colleges to help students find housing, employment, and healthcare services.

INTERVIEW

with Expert DR. DEB COHAN

Dr. Deb Cohan, Assistant Professor of Sociology at University of South Carolina Beaufort with a specialization in Gender Studies. Former Board of Directors member at PFLAG.

Because of the social change work of tireless LGBTQ activists and their straight allies, we are living at a time that is most ripe and ready for conversation.� Ask questions, get curious, share your curiosity, and be prepared to be surprised as to how and where you might find allies. Also, seek out the GSA at your school, and look into your local PFLAG organization. In this day and age of social media, you will also find support in chat rooms and on websites with people living across the globe. With that said, think globally and act locally and keep up your involvement in your own community.

Do not be afraid to seek counseling so you have a safe, open, and trustworthy space to talk with a trained therapist, preferably one who specifies that s/he is friendly to these issues.

Be sure to tell your doctor if you can so your health issues can be addressed holistically.

Self-loathing, isolation, self-injury, and suicidal thoughts are sadly common among high schoolers and college students and especially so among LGBTQ youth.

Teachers and professors can assign reading by some of the great LGBTQ writers of our time. Some write about LGBTQ identity while others write about other subject matter. Often, these are great springboards for discussion on intersectionality and the connections between gender, sexuality, race, and class.

Teachers and professors can also host film screenings and invite guest speakers who highlight these issues from their own personal and professional experiences; these activities must be followed by spirited, lively, open and honest discussions. I do this all the time in my own classrooms. It not only creates a safe space for LGBTQ students but it creates expansive space for straight students. I have had a number of students tell me that after my class, they would be okay if they have a child who is gay-this is hugely transformative considering that they entered the class admittedly homophobic.

LGBTQ+ College Students

In addition to balancing coursework, navigating new social situations and possibly trying to work during their studies, LGBTQ college students may encounter unique challenges while undertaking their education. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force found that one in five college students fear for their physical safety due to their gender identity or sexual orientation. The good news is that many colleges across the nation are actively fighting to end discrimination on-campus and engender a spirit of acceptance and respect among all students, faculty and staff members.

The Campus Pride Index

Founded in 2001, Campus Pride has becoming the leading national organization for promoting safe college environments by developing student leaders and campus groups. What once started as an online community and center has now grown into a massive effort that has taken root on college campuses across the nation.

One of the most significant resources provided by the organization is the LGBTQ-Friendly Campus Pride Index. This guide is used to measure LGBTQ qualify of life across college and university campuses and promote better practices and open dialog. It also helps postsecondary institutions become more LGBTQ-friendly. According to the organization, "LGBTQ-friendly" describes a learning environment that is inclusive, welcoming and respectful for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people.

The Index has identified eight factors contributing to an overall LGBTQ-friendly college environment:
8 Factors Contributing to an Overall LGBTQ-Friendly College Environment
Curricula & Courses: LGBTQ-Inclusive Academics

Aside from LGBTQ Centers and student-led groups, colleges and universities can promote LGBTQ awareness and acceptance through academics, as well. Some of the best practices include:

1 Create inclusive lesson plans with positive examples of notable LGBTQ leaders. Fordham University provides an excellent resource to all faculty members that outlines LGBTQ teaching recommendations. Some of their suggestions include:

Challenge heterosexist assumptions

Don't use us/them terminology; be inclusive

Use LGBTQ writers, academics, scientists, and business leaders as examples of positive contributions throughout the course.

Increase the visibility of LGBTQ role models and allies

Make all students, regardless of sexual orientation, feel valued

2 Offer degree programs covering gender, sexuality, diversity, and queer history and culture. A number of schools have courses and degrees that explore the spectrum of human sexuality. Some of the most interesting include:
Majors

Feminist Studies

LGBTQ Studies

Queer Studies

Psychology with an concentration in LGBTQ Studies

Individual Courses

Multidisciplinary approaches to LGBTQ Health

Socio-cultural and historical dimensions of the LGBTQ community

Queer theory

Sex and gender in cross-cultural perspective

The sexual politics of religion

Key College Resources for LGBTQ+ Students

Aside from academic inclusion of LGBTQ topics and positive perspectives, many campuses have various other types of support systems available for LGBTQ students. Some of these include:
LGBTQ Resource Centers
Because LGBTQ students can often face unique challenges, they need unique support and resources. Colleges and universities throughout the nation now often have centers dedicated specifically to LGBTQ needs. Students can find a safe place to locate resources, support, information, and care. In addition to direct services, these departments often host various campus events to foster community, promote education of LGBTQ topics, and promote health and wellness for all students.
Online Social Media and Discussion Resources
Today's students constantly use the Internet in a variety of ways. Universities have picked up on this trend and many now offer online forums for discussion and support, and the latest information on current news and issues within the LGBTQ community. In most cases, these forums are private and can only be accessed with proper and valid school logins.
Faculty and Staff Education Programs
Academics lead the charge in ensuring all students, regardless of sexual orientation, feel safe, valued and empowered in their classrooms. Universities now offer training and many resources to ensure faculty and staff are well-informed about inclusion of LGBTQ topics and are sensitive to discrimination.
LGBTQ Campus Events
Campus wide events deigned to celebrate and empower LGBTQ students and their allies are a great way to educate the larger campus community about LGBTQ interests. Many LGBTQ Resource Centers will host a variety of events throughout the school year. George Mason University provides a great example of a rotating event schedule. Some of their upcoming events include Pride Week, National Coming Out Day and Safe Zone Training. The school also hosts book reading groups from LGBTQ authors and scholarships for LGBTQ students.
Special On-Campus or Campus-Sponsored Housing Issues
Students have enough on their plates without worrying about feeling comfortable in their living space. Many universities provide options specifically designated for LGBTQ students, be they shared dormitory rooms, suite-style apartments, or gender-neutral accommodations. Numerous schools have also begun creating all gender bathroom facilities to ensure further inclusivity.

Other Online Resources

LGBTQ students have enough on their plates navigating the usual pressures of college life without having to worry about feeling safe or discriminated against. Resources and organizations aimed at LGBTQ college students are crucial for educating, informing, advocating, and providing resources. Some of the best organizations serving LGBTQ college students and their allies are listed below:

Delta Lambda Phi Fraternity
The DLP Fraternity was established for gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning men in 1986. Today, the Greek life organization has over 30 chapters spread throughout the country. The chapters seek to form bonds of brotherhood within a decidedly nontraditional group, offering opportunities to lead, grow, and form lifelong friendships.

Gamma Rho Lambda Sorority
Established as the first national lesbian sorority, today this Greek life organization strives to be inclusive of all members, regardless of their sexual orientation. The enduring focus is on creating a sisterhood built on truth in tolerance, knowledge through diversity, bonds of unity, and strength in trust.

Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals
Since 1997, this organization has been working with colleges and educators across the nation to create learning environments where LGBTQ students have equality in all respects. Whether supporting academics or developing inclusive curriculum, the organization advocates on behalf of students by educating faculty and staff.

Reaching Out
Reaching Out MBA was created specifically for LGBTQ students pursuing Master's in Business Administration as a way of empowering and supporting them in their studies and as they enter the professional world. With a mission of inspiring these students to lead the way in equality, the organization educates students about the challenges and opportunities of being an LGBTQ MBA student, inspires them to be leaders, and builds connections among other LGBTQ MBA students.

The Point Foundation
The Point Foundation operates as a national LGBTQ scholarship fund, helping LGBTQ students achieve their academic and leadership potential regardless of obstacles. The biggest obstacle this organization seeks to remove is concern about financing a college education. Students with financial need who can demonstrate their aspiration to make a significant impact on society can truly benefit from the work of this organization.

The Gender & Sexuality Action Committee
Operating under the umbrella of the American Medical Student Association, GSEC seeks to assure equal access to both medical care and education. The organization aspires to be a leader on issues affecting the health of women, intersex and LGBT communities. This goal is accomplished through providing support initiatives, working with legislators to improve police, advocating for patients and students, and providing safe and supportive environments and leadership opportunities for physicians-in-training.

INTERVIEW

with Expert EUGENE PATRON The Point Foundation

College today is a challenging expense for all students, but in surveying LGBTQ applicants for Point Foundation scholarships nearly half say they lack family support to help them pay for college. LGBTQ students estranged from their families may have a hard time filling out FAFSA ® �if they cannot get their parents to supply pertinent information. (Thankfully, recognizing this challenge, the U.S. Department of Education has taken some important steps to make this somewhat easier in recent years).

LGBTQ students are very much in need of professional role models. They have never met openly LGBTQ doctors, entrepreneurs, scientists, or other professionals. Many LGBTQ students wonder if they choose to follow their interests and study their academic discipline of choice, can they be out to their peers and their professor?

Point alumni who have gone on to teach at colleges and universities stress the importance of faculty being out on campus and accessible to LGBTQ students. LGBTQ faculty interacting with LGBTQ students inside and outside of the classroom - having lunch with LGBTQ students, being an adviser to LGBTQ student groups - helps LGBTQ students by modeling for them how they too can integrate themselves into campus life. It's important for LGBTQ faculty to identify and encourage faculty allies - including straight peers - who can help make the campus community welcoming for LGBTQ students.

Point Foundation is a supporter of the Tyler Clementi Higher Education Anti-Harassment Act, which would require colleges to create and distribute an anti-harassment policy to all students and employees, including prospective students and employees upon request. More information on this proposed federal legislation can be found� here.

According to Lambda Legal, nearly one-third of LGBTQ students drop out of high school, three times the national average. Just by getting through high school, LGBTQ students should take pride in their accomplishment!

LGBTQ high school students should try and participate in Campus Pride's LGBTQ College Fairs, where they can learn about colleges that actively seek applications from LGBTQ students. Campus Pride and other organizations also provide annual rankings of how LGBTQ-friendly different schools are. Even after considering these rankings, it is important for LGBTQ students to remind themselves that they can find LGBTQ peers and allies on most campuses today. Students shouldn't hold themselves back from attending the school of their choice because they are LGBTQ.

Scholarships for LGBTQ+ Students

In addition to countless general scholarships, LGBTQ students have numerous funding opportunities offered by leading civil rights and advocacy organizations focused on eradicating sexual orientation discrimination. Some of the top LGBTQ-specific scholarships available include:

The Pride Foundation

Varies

January 11

This scholarship awards LGBT students and their allies who have demonstrably contributed to the LGBTQ community. It is open to both undergraduate and graduate students hailing from Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington

The League Foundation

$1,500 - $2,500

April

Students qualified to receive this funding must graduating high school students who plan on attending a college, university or trade school. As part of the application process, students will need to complete an application and two personal essays.

The Point Foundation

Varies

January 20

LGBTQ students who aspire to be leaders in their communities and in the fight for equal rights are excellent candidates for this scholarship. Selection criteria is made on "last provider" basis, meaning this scholarship fills the gap in funding not provided by other sources.

PFLAG

$1,000 - $5,000

April 30

PFLAG awards these scholarships to graduating high school seniors who self identify as members of the LGBTQ community or as an ally. Students must also demonstrate previous commitment to furthering equality via programs, projects or activities within their high schools or communities.

Gamma Mu Foundation

$1,000 - $2,500

March 31

Gay men under the age of 35 may apply for Gamma Mu's scholarship, including those in both undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs. Preference will be giving to students who come from or plan to attend college in a rural area; who have overcome discrimination; who demonstrate leadership qualities; and who have a history of strong academic performance.

Live Out Loud

$5,000

March 4

LGBTQ students demonstrating leadership and ambition are able to apply to this scholarship, providing they are also high school seniors living in New York, New Jersey or Connecticut. Students will complete an information form and six essays as part of their application.

The Queer Foundation

$1,000

February 14

High School seniors may apply for this scholarship, which is awarded on the basis of an English essay competition. Students must compose an essay focused on queer theory or related topics, such as queer medical, legal or social issues.

The Stonewall Foundation

Up to $12,500

August 20

This scholarship was created specifically for immigrant LGBTQI students enrolled in a New York City-based university to provide economic stability in an unfamiliar environment. Students must be full-time and should have completed at least one academic year at the time of their application.

The Association of LGBT Journalists

$2,500

July 31

This scholarship was named after notable painter Bob Ross, who was a strong advocate for LGBT and AIDS rights. Students eligible to receive this award must be enrolled in a journalism or related degree program at a Northern California institution. Students who are from Northern California but attending elsewhere may also apply.

American Psychological Foundation

$15,000

November 1

Students completing empirical and applied research focused on LGBT family psychology and/or therapy may apply for this scholarship, provided they are currently completing advanced graduate coursework. They must also be endorsed by their supervising professor and have a demonstrated commitment to working within LGBT family issues.

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LGBTQ+ Student Resources & Support | Accredited Schools Online

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Bullying Statistics found that 42% of LGBTQ youth have experienced cyber bullying, a rate 3x higher than other students. Here are a few things everyone can do to maximize support for LGBTQ teens and college students.

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LGBTQ Differnt Flags for Sexualitys and Genders

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Positive environments are important to help all youth thrive. However, the health needs of LGBTQ+ Youth can differ from their heterosexual peers. On this page, find resources from the CDC, other government agencies, and community organizations for LGBTQ+ Youth, their friends, educators, parents, and family members to support positive environments.

Because some LGBTQ+ Youth are more likely than their heterosexual peers to experience bullying or other aggression in school, it is important that educators, counselors, and school administrators have access to resources and support to create a safe, healthy learning environment for all students.

American Psychological Association (APA) Resources:

Because some LGBT Youth are more likely than their heterosexual peers to experience bullying or other aggression in school, it is important that educators, counselors, and school administrators have access to resources and support to create a safe, healthy learning environment for all students.

Some LGBT Youth are more likely than their heterosexual peers to experience bullying or other aggression in school. It is important that educators, counselors, and school administrators have access to resources and support to create a safe, healthy learning environment for all students.

Links to non-Federal organizations found at this site are provided solely as a service to our users. These links do not constitute an endorsement of these organizations or their programs by CDC or the Federal Government, and none should be inferred. CDC is not responsible for the content of the individual organization Web pages found at these links.

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lesbian gay bisexual and transgender (lgbt) health

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Resources for LGBT youth as well as friends, family, and school administrators to support LGBT youth.

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All Are Welcome. Alexandra Penfold. (Pre-K - 1) Follow a diverse group of children from all kinds of families through a day at school, where everyone is welcomed with open arms. It lets young children know that no matter what, they have a place, they have a space, they are welcome in their school. Lesson Plan.

Families. Shelley Rotner and Sheila M. Kelly. (Pre-K - K) Big or small, similar or different, there are all kinds of families featured in the many photos. This inclusive look can help children see beyond their own experiences and begin to understand others. Lesson Plan.

Families, Families, Families! Suzanne and Max Lang. (Pre-K - K) A host of silly animals represent all kinds of families. Depicted as portraits, framed and hung, these goofy creatures offer a warm celebration of family love. Lesson Plan.

The Family Book. Todd Parr. (Pre-K - K) All kinds of families are celebrated in a funny, silly and reassuring way. Includes adoptive families, stepfamilies, single-parent families, two-mom and two-dad families and families with a mom and a dad. Quirky humor and bright, childlike illustrations. Lesson Plan.

Family Is a Family Is a Family. Sara O'Leary. (Pre-K - K) When a teacher asks the children in her class to think about what makes their families special, the answers are all different in many ways- but the same in the one way that matters most of all. Lesson Plan.

The Great Big Book of Families. Mary Hoffman. (Pre-K - 3) Features all kinds of families and their lives together. Each spread showcases one aspect of home life - from houses and holidays, to schools and pets, to feelings and family trees. Lesson Plan.

Picture Books: LGBTQ Family and Who You Love

The Adventures of Honey and Leon. Alan Cumming and Grant Shaffer. (Pre-K - 1) The two rescue dogs shadow their dads on a trip across the sea, keeping them out of danger at every turn! How did their dads survive without Honey and Leon's protection for this long?

And Tango Makes Three. Justin Richardson & Peter Parnell. (1-3) Penguins Roy and Silo at New York's Central Park Zoo, keep putting a rock in their nest and try to hatch it. The zookeeper gives them a real egg that needs care. The penguins take turns sitting on ituntil it hatches, and Tango is born. Lesson Plan.

Baby's First Words and Mis primeras palabras. Christiane Engel. (Baby - Toddler) Featuring a family with two dads. Includes over 100 words designed to support the way babies naturally learn language - and to start conversations! Plus, search for the silly woolly mammoth on every page!

The Bravest Knight Who Ever Lived. Daniel Errico, (Pre-K - 1) Follow Cedric on his journey from a humble pumpkin farmer to a full-fledged knight. In the end, will he follow his heart, and prove that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is choose for yourself how your fairy tale ends? Made into a TV series on Hulu.

The Different Dragon. Jennifer Bryan. (K - 1) Shows how the wonderful curiosity and care of a little boy, with some help from his two moms, can lead to magical places with a dragon who is tired of being tough. Lesson Plan.

Donovan's Big Day. Lesléa Newman, (Pre-K - 2) Captures the excitement of a young boy as he and his extended family prepare for the boy's two moms' wedding. A picture book about love, family, and marriage.

The Gay Rights Movement (Movements That Matter). Eric Braun. (3 - 5) What has changed throughout the history of the gay rights movement? Learn about the key people and events that have paved the way for the modern gay rights movement. Lesson Plan.

Harriet Gets Carried Away. Jessie Sima. (Toddler - K) Harriet, an African American girl, with two dads loves costumes and can get a little carried away! A fun story about remembering where you belong, no matter how far you roam, or what you're wearing when you get there.

Heather Has Two Mommies. 25th Anniversary Edition. Lesléa Newman. (Pre-K - K) Heather's favorite number is two. She has two arms, two legs, and two pets. And she also has two mommies. As school begins, Heather sees that, "the most important thing about a family is that all the people in it love one another."

Home at Last. Vera B. Williams and Chris Raschka. (1 - 3) After Lester is adopted by Daddy Albert and Daddy Rich, he develops a big problem-he can't fall asleep. It's the sweet dog, Wincka, who finally solves the problem and helps Lester feels home at last.

I am Jazz. Jessica Herthel and Jazz Jennings. (K - 5) From the time she was two years old, Jazz knew she was a girl, even though others saw her as a boy. She loved pink and dressing up as a mermaid and didn't feel like herself in boys' clothing. Based on the real-life experiences of Jazz Jennings. Lesson Plan.

Keesha's South African Adventure. Cheril N Clarke and Monica Bey-Clarke. (Pre-K - 2) After learning about South Africa in school, the inquisitive and lighthearted Keesha dreams of going to see it for herself. She gets the surprise of a lifetime when her two moms decide to take her there.

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo. Jill Twiss and Marlon Bundo. (K - 2) Marlon Bundo is a Very Special boy bunny who falls in love with another boy bunny. He was lonely living with his Grampa, Mike Pence - the Vice President. But on this Very Special Day, Marlon's life is about to change forever. Lesson Plan.

Maide n Voyage. Jaimee Poipoi. Adam Reynolds & Chaz Harris. (Pre-K - 1) When a fisherman's daughter inherits a map and joins the crew of a courageous female captain, a bond between them soon forms into love. Pursuing them on the high seas adventure is a fierce band of pirates, bewitched by a wicked Queen.

Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag. Rob Sanders. (1 - 3) Trace the life of the Gay Pride Flag, from its beginnings in 1978 with social activist Harvey Milk and designer Gilbert Baker to its spanning of the globe and its role in today's world. A Junior Library Guild Selection. Lesson Plan.

Prince & Knight. Daniel Haack (Pre-K - 1) A prince searched near and far for a bride. When his lands were threatened by a dragon, the prince raced back to protect his kingdom and was met by a brave knight in a suit of brightly shining armor. Together they fought the dragon and discovered that special something the prince was looking for all along.

Stella Brings the Family. Miriam B. Schiffer. (Pre-K - 1) Stella's class is having a Mother's Day celebration, but what's a girl with two daddies to do? Fortunately, Stella finds a unique solution to her party problem in this sweet story about love, acceptance, and the true meaning of family. Lesson Plan.

A Tale of Two Daddies. Vanita Oelschlager. (Pre-K - 1) A young girl answers a friend's questions about what it is like to have two fathers. The boy asks straightforward questions. The story ends with simply, "Who is your dad when you're sad and need some love?" Both, of course. Also see, A Tale of Two Mommies.

Middle Grade Books: LGBTQ Family and Who You Love

Also Known as Elvis. James Howe. (4 - 7) Skeezie's got the leather jacket of a tough guy, but a heart of gold. While stuck at home for the summer taking care of his sisters and working five days a week to help out his mom, he navigates first crushes and tough choices about family and friends. Final book in The Misfits series.

Ashes to A sheville. Sarah Dooley. (5 - 7) After Mama Lacy's death, Fella was forced to move in with her grandmother while her sister Zoey stayed with Mama Shannon. One night, Zany shows up determined to fulfill Mama Lacy's dying wish: to have her ashes spread at the last place they were all happy as a family. So, the sisters take off on a wild road trip.

The Best Man. Richard Peck. (3 - 5) With humor and insight, Newbery Medalist, Richard Peck, follows a boy from elementary school to middle school navigating school and family dynamics. Starts with a wedding disaster and ends with a great one.

Captain Underpants and the Sensational Saga of Sir Stinks-A-Lot. Dan Pilkey. (2 - 4) When George and Harold try to avert disaster, they travel into the future and seek the help of their adult selves. Harold is pictured with his husband and their kids.

Drama. Raina Telgemeier. (5 - 8) Graphic novel through drama - a play - and drama between characters explores middle school feelings with boyfriends and girlfriends, and boyfriends and boyfriends.

Drum Roll, Please. Lisa Jenn Bigelow. (3 - 7) This summer brings big changes for Melly: her parents split up just before she goes to Camp Rockaway, her best friend ditches her, and she finds herself falling for a girl at camp. To top it off, Melly's not sure she has what it takes to be a real rock 'n' roll drummer.

Gay & Lesbian History for Kids: The Century-Long Struggle for LGBT Rights. Jerome Pohlen. (5 - 9) This book puts the historic struggle for LGBTQ equality into perspective Given today's news, it would be easy to get the impression that the campaign for LGBTQ equality is a recent development. This resource helps put recent events into context.

The House of Hades. Rick Riordan. (4 - 6) In the fourth installment of the Heroes of Olympus series, Demigod Nico comes out and admits he is in love with Percy. The topic continues into The Blood of Olympus as he develops a crush on a counselor at Camp Half-Blood.

Hurricane Child. Kheryn Callender. (4 - 8) Feeling lonely and bullied daily with cruel remarks about her dark skin tone, Caroline finally befriends a new student, Kalinda. As Caroline develops a crush on Kalinda, they work together to find Caroline's mother.

Ivy Aberdeen's Letter to the World. Ashley Herring Blake. (5 - 7) In the wake of a destructive tornado, one girl develops feelings for another in this stunning, tender novel about emerging identity.

The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher. Dana Alison Levy. (3 - 5) From camping trips to scary tales told in the dark, from new schools to old friends, from imaginary cheetahs to very real skunks, the Fletchers' school year-as always-is anything but boring. Meet the Fletchers: four boys, two dads, and one new neighbor who just might ruin everything. Continues with The Family Fletcher Takes Rock Island.

The Misfits. James Howe. (6 - 9) Four best friends try to survive seventh grade in the face of all-too-frequent taunts based on their weight, height, intelligence and sexual orientation/gender expression. The characters, including an open and unapologetically gay boy, are not cast as victims, but as self-empowered agents of change who will stand as solid role models. With a focus on individual characters from The Misfits check out Totally Joe, Addie on the Inside, and Also Known as Elvis.

The Mysterious Edge of the Heroic World. E. L. Konigsburg. ( 5 - 7) Two boys find themselves caught up in a story that links a sketch, a young boy's life, an old man's reminiscence, and a painful secret dating back to the outrages of Nazi Germany. Includes revelations about the victimization of artists and gays during the Holocaust.

Not Your Sidekick. C.B. Lee. (5 - 8) Welcome to Andover, where superpowers are common, but internships are complicated. On the upside, Jessica gets to work with her longtime secret crush, Abby. But, with a sudden and dangerous turn, she uncovers a plot larger than heroes and villains altogether. Sequel: Not Your Villain.

The Pants Project. Cat Clarke. (3 - 6) Liv knows he was always meant to be a boy but he hasn't told anyone yet - not even his two moms. Now, his new school has a terrible dress code, he has to wear skirts! The only way for Liv to get what he wants is to go after it himself with a mission to change the policy and his life.

The Parker Inheritance. Varian Johnson. (3 - 6) Candice discovers a mysterious old letter about an injustice from decades ago. With the help of Brandon, she begins to decipher the clues to a story that leads them deep into their South Carolina town's history-a history full of ugly deeds and forgotten heroes. Good historical detail and LGBT characters included.

The Popularity Papers: Research for the Social Improvement and General Betterment of Lydia Goldblatt and Julie Graham-Chang. Amy Ignatow. (4 - 6) Two fifth-grade best friends are determined to uncover the secrets of popularity by observing, recording, discussing, and replicating the behaviors of the "cool" girls. Notebook format with a lot of illustrations. Julie has two dads. There are seven books in the series. The second book specifically looks at bullying.

Princess Princess Ever After. Katie O'Neill. (2 - 5) When the heroic princess Amira rescues the kind-hearted princess Sadie from her tower prison, neither expects to find a true friend in the bargain. They join forces to defeat a jealous sorceress while realizing their happy ever after is with each other.

Riding Freedom. Pam Muñoz Ryan. (4 - 6) A fictionalized account of the true story of Charley (Charlotte) Parkhurst who ran away from an orphanage, lived as a boy, moved to California, drove stagecoaches and continued to live as a man. Spanish edition: Un caballo llamado Libertad.

The Stars Beneath Our Feet. David Barclay Moore. (5 - 9) A boy tries to steer a safe path through the projects in Harlem in the wake of his brother's death. Then Lolly's mother's girlfriend brings him a gift that will change everything: two enormous bags filled with Legos.

Zenobia July. Lisa Bunker. (5 - 9) Zenobia July is starting a new life in Maine with her aunts. People used to tell her she was a boy; now she's able to live openly as the girl she always knew she was. When someone anonymously posts hateful memes on her school's website, Zenobia knows she's the one with the hacking skills to solve the mystery.

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Great Diverse LGBTQ Inclusive Picture & Middle Grade Books

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Up-to-date recommended diverse children's books - featuring LGBTQ families and who you love. Find a list with top recommendations and extended lists of picture books and middle grade books. Check out some lesson plans to go along with the books.

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Edutopia is a free source of information, inspiration, and practical strategies for learning and teaching in preK-12 education. We are published by the George Lucas Educational Foundation, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization.

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The Brain on Poverty | Jessica Sharpe | TEDxGreenville

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The MLI Social Programme is another important part of the MLI course. The activities and excursions included complement the academic programme and encourage the students to mix together and continue to improve their English.
Designed with juniors and teenagers in mind, we choose activities and excursions that will enhance the student's experience, help them learn about and experience local culture, maximise their English skills, but also have FUN!

There are activities running on and off-site almost every afternoon and evening. We schedule a range of different options so there is something for everyone - sports, scavenger hunt, fashion show, disco, quiz night etc - as well as local cultural visits. On excursions to places of interest, students are given some information by the accompanying Activity Leaders, and often a task to compete for a prize!

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The MLI Social Programme is another important part of the MLI course. The activities and excursions included complement the academic programme and encourage the students to mix together and continue to improve their English.

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Attend today. Achieve tomorrow. Setting children on the path to success starts with ensuring they are at school. Every day. All day. Absences Add Up Showing up for school has a huge impact on a student's academic success, starting in kindergarten and continuing through high school. Absences - excused

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An Urgent and Preventable Crisis

1 in 6

CHILDREN IN AMERICA LIVE IN POVERTY-
MAKING THEM THE POOREST AGE GROUP
IN THE COUNTRY

It's nearly 6:30 a.m. and the sky is just waking up in Queens, N.Y. So too is fourth-grader Darnell, who sees the light from the rising sun and knows something is wrong. ¹ He's already late. The school bus has left, and now his family must make a 90-minute trek from the shelter where they are staying to Public School 76. Darnell's days are long and they take a lot of patience-to get to school, to get to the next meal, to get to his favorite part of the day, football practice, to turn around and get back to the shelter. Despite 10 years of economic recovery and continued declines in child poverty for all racial and ethnic groups, too many children like Darnell are being told to be patient, to wait to feel the effects of an improving economy.

Children remain the poorest age group in America. Nearly 1 in 6 lived in poverty in 2018-nearly 11.9 million children (see Table 2). The child poverty rate (16 percent) is nearly one-and-a-half times higher than that for adults ages 18-64 (11 percent) and two times higher than that for adults 65 and older (10 percent). Children are considered poor if they live in a family with an annual income below the Federal Poverty Line of $25,701 for a family of four, which amounts to less than $2,142 a month, $494 a week or $70 a day (see Table 3).

More than 1 in 6 children under 6 were poor and almost half of them lived in extreme poverty (see Table 4).

Nearly 1 in 3 Black (30.1 percent) and American Indian/Alaska Native children (29.1 percent) and nearly 1 in 4 Hispanic children (23.7 percent) were poor compared with 1 in 11 white children (8.9 percent) (see Tables 5-6).

Child poverty is related to both age and race/ethnicity. The youngest children are the poorest and nearly 73 percent of poor children in America are children of color.

More than 25 percent of Black children were poor in 35 states and the District of Columbia in 2018; Hispanic children, in 29 states; and American Indian/Native Alaska children, in 20 states.

Only two states had white child poverty rates that were 20 percent or higher (see Table 6).

Children's chances of being poor are also partly a result of the lottery of geography.

Poor children are more likely to have poor academic achievement, drop out of high school and later become unemployed, experience economic hardship and be involved in the criminal justice system. Children who experience poverty are also more likely to be poor at age 30 than children who never experience poverty.²

Lost productivity, worsened health and increased crime stemming from child poverty cost the nation about $700 billion dollars a year, or about 3.5 percent of GDP.³

Why, in the world's largest economy, are children like Darnell still languishing in poverty? Every year children spend in poverty is dangerous and expensive. The toxic stress of early poverty stunts children's development, creating opportunity gaps that can last a lifetime and harm the nation's economy.

In 2018, 4.7 million children were lifted out of poverty with the help of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and other refundable tax credits; 1.4 million with the help of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); nearly 1 million with housing subsidies; 800,000 with the National School Lunch Program; 497,000 with the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program; 216,000 with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and general assistance; and 169,000 with the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).⁴

Children with access to SNAP and the EITC also fare better in adulthood. Children receiving SNAP are more likely to finish high school and less likely to experience obesity, stunted growth or heart disease as adults. Moreover, children in families benefiting from the EITC have higher scores on reading and math tests and are more likely to go on to college and have higher earnings as adults.

Child poverty is not a crisis without a solution. A long trail of evidence shows government assistance programs help curb the negative effects poverty has on children, families and the economy.

To end child poverty now, children's basic needs must be met, and parents who are able to work must be able to find jobs that can support a family. Darnell's mom Sherine is a home health care aide who volunteers at school on her days off. Despite all these contributions professionally and in her children's lives, her voice breaks when she talks to a New York Times reporter. "I feel like a failed parent," she says, adding, "I should have been able to provide everything that they need." But Sherine hasn't failed-America has. The majority of poor children live with at least one working family member and nearly one-third live with a family member who works full-time, year round. ⁵ We can and must do better.

Immigrant Children are America's Children: Poverty

Maria is a proud mom of two teens, a son and a daughter. She's a hard worker who sometimes goes straight from cleaning houses to laying concrete in parking lots. She's a taxpayer. "I think it's important, and all my relatives pay their taxes too," she tells a Vox reporter. ⁶

Maria is an immigrant. All wage earners-regardless of their immigration status-are required to pay federal taxes. And Maria does, every year, just as immigrant workers from all across this nation do, contributing billions of dollars to the U.S. economy. ⁷ However, many restrictions prevent millions of immigrants like Maria from receiving benefits, like life-saving safety net programs or poverty-busting tax credits.

Safety net programs and tax credits lift millions of children out of poverty each year. We can help millions more children by improving those programs now. But to finish the job, this nation must reverse policies that deny credits and other benefits to children and parents in immigrant families.

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The State of America's Children 2020 - Child Poverty

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An Urgent and Preventable Crisis 1 in 6 CHILDREN IN AMERICA LIVE IN POVERTY- MAKING THEM THE POOREST AGE GROUP IN THE COUNTRY It's nearly 6:30 a.m. and the sky is just waking up in Queens, N.Y. So too is fourth-grader Darnell, who sees the light from the rising sun and knows something is wrong.1 He's already late.

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Low income families as well as struggling residents of Wichita and the county can get help. Charities, the government, and churches provide assistance for rent arrears, heating or utility bills, mortgages and other support. Find how to get free food, clothing, and other financial aid from the agencies below.

In addition, the Sedgwick County charities try to offer non-financial support. This ranges from free back to school supplies to case management, legal aid, debt help, or Christmas gifts for kids. Other advice and social services can be provided too, including referrals to government assistance.

Wichita has a Laid-Off Workers Center , and to date thousands of people have made appointments to receive assistance. The United Way of the Plains is the organization that is taking appointments. The center offers limited emergency financial assistance for individuals and families who have lost their jobs.

The Laid-Off Workers Center will offer counseling, provide assistance, and offer services that include emergency assistance for food, housing assistance including rent help and shelter; debt management and budget counseling; arrangements and aid for paying utility bills; help applying for both federal and state government assistance programs, job search assistance and job training; and also continuing education information and work training. Find additional debt help and rent aid.

In order to be qualified for help, applicants will need to prove that they have emergency financial needs and in addition they need to show that they have insufficient personal resources to adequately provide shelter, food, and/or clothing. In addition, applicants to this program need to show that they have been laid off from a job in Butler, Sedgwick, or Sumner counties or that they lived in those counties at the time of the layoff. Other criteria are in place as well. Dial (316) 267-1321. Both short and long term resources are offered. The Help and services the center provides includes:

* Emergency financial assistance for paying mortgage, utility bills, or rent. Checks that are provided for aid will be written directly to the landlord, lender, or utility company.

* Debt management and budget counseling.

* Help applying for federal and state government programs.

* Arrangements and payments for utility bill payment plans.

* Job training as well as job search assistance.

Help with rent

Homeless Prevention and Rapid Rehousing grants provide housing assistance. Some of the assistance offered will include rental subsidies, funds to pay for utility deposits and security deposits. There is also other financial aid for income-eligible individuals and families.

In addition, this federal government resource, The Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program, will pay rent, security deposits, and the utility and heating bills for up to 18 months for those who qualify for support. It is also part of ESG funds. The program, which is also being funded through the city of Wichita, is part of the federal government HUD funds that go to the county and local charities each year.

Contact the United Way of the Plains at Phone: (316) 267-1321 to learn more or apply for rent help.

Funds for utility and heating bills, rent, and other limited financial aid

Center of Hope , which is based in Wichita Kansas and can be reached at 316-267-0222, may be able to assists needy families and individuals in the area by paying them with help for rent and utility bills, thus enabling them to remain in their own homes or apartments.

The non-profit also has referrals and information on other programs in the Sedgwick County region. This is one of the leading social service agencies in the city. If they can't meet your needs, the center may know who can. More details on programs from Center of Hope.

United Way Help Center - This center can provide information and referrals to free food and/or case management to low income and those who need help. Many churches are involved in the area, and they may also offer limited financial assistance for bills and rent and medications. The agency also provides services specific to the needs of Hispanics including advocacy and referrals to resources, including Kansas and federal government programs.

One focus is on case management and employment assistance. So clients of a church may be provided counseling or a free gasoline voucher for a job interview. They also offer homeless prevention in Wichita, and so churches that are part of churches may have grants to pay back rent, overdue utility bills, or a security deposit. Free Christmas assistance, meals from a pantry, and senior programs are offered too. Find more on Wichita and Sedgwick church programs.

Sedgwick County Salvation Army - The internal based organization may be able to provide qualified people with basic needs assistance. This is for low income, unemployed and poverty level families and individuals on an emergency basis. Basic needs that may be met and provided for include food (food pantry and voucher), free clothing/work related items, utilities and heating expenses, prescriptions/medical needs, transportation (city bus and Greyhound), school supplies or baby items (free diapers and baby formula).

In addition, other aid may be offered that the family or individual has that cannot be met by other area non-profit agencies or government programs. Phone (316) 263-2769. Click here for details on help from Salvation Army in Sedgwick County.

Salvation Army - Wichita runs Emergency Assistance Centers/Downtown Social Services from several locations across the region. They can be found below, as well as information on resources and emergency assistance that is offered. The centers provide for basic needs and emergency assistance to poverty level and low income families and individuals.

All aid is to help address a crisis situation. Basic needs or financial support that may be either paid for or provided are free food, and surplus government commodities are distributed. Other resources can help with utilities, prescriptions/medical needs, baby items (formula and diapers), burial plots or any other need that the family has that cannot be met by other programs or non-profit agencies.

Special Thanksgiving and Christmas meals may be served by the Salvation Army to anyone who needs help in the Sedgwick County community. They also run the Star of Hope and Angel Tree Christmas assistance programs. Read more general information on getting Christmas help for free from charities.

350 N Market, Wichita, KS 67202, (316) 263-2769

1910 S. Everett, Wichita, Kansas 67213, main number (316) 943-9893

1739 S Elpyco, Wichita, Kansas 67218, call (316) 685-8699

These Salvation Army centers serve residents of zipcodes of 67201, 67202, 67203, 67204, 67208, 67211, 67214, 67219 Park City, 67220 Bel Aire, 67226, 67228, 67017 Benton, 67067 Kechi.

Economic & Employment Services be able to provide help in a crisis. Dial (316) 337-7000. A program known may be able to give cash funds to those very low income families or people in poverty who are experiencing a situational financial emergency. The funds are intended for a one time use only. The objective is to provide emergency financial assistance to provide food from SNAP, offer utility help, and other aid in Wichita. Typical bills and expenses paid: Heating, Utilities and Rent.

Temporary homeless prevention services support tenants and residents that meet low income guidelines. Using federal money as well as donations from the United Way, there is financial help for expenses and case management arranged.

Small dollar amounts may assist with rental, water, heating or utility bill arrears.

Case management is focused on the vulnerable including single parents, seniors, and the disabled.

Applicants can get referrals to section 8 vouchers or other benefits, and read more Sedgwick County homeless prevention programs.

Center of Hope Homeless Prevention Assistance Program - This organization may be able to assist needy families in Sedgwick Kansas by helping them with paying rent/utility bills. The objective is to help enable them to remain in their own homes and avoid an eviction or disconnection. 400 N. Emporia, Wichita, Kansas 67202-2514, call (316) 267-0222

Project Deserve is run by the Sedgwick County Center of Hope and Westar Energy. The organization may be able to provide financial assistance for energy related needs such as heating and utility bills. They will only pay for Westar Energy bills though. More general rent & utility assistance may be provided too if someone has an unexpected financial emergency within the last 90 days. It really needs to be some type of life-threatening medical condition or maybe a natural disaster. Dial (316) 267-0222 for more information as well as applications.

Sedgwick County resource guide provides referrals to other financial aid, charities, and free services in the region. They have support for emergency expenses and help for seniors. Funding can include items such as heating bill help (referenced above under Project Deserve), funds for rent or other housing expenses such as security deposit fees, and free meals for the elderly and seniors in the region. A focus is on preventing homelessness and feeding the hungry.

The guide also has much more. Find out about food pantries, free clothing programs, children and youth services, free drug rehabilitation and more. There is also medical care in Sedgwick County, housing resources, and much more. They are a leading charity in the Wichita area. Learn more on the Sedgwick County resource guide.

Harvest America supports the Wichita area. While a number of resources are available, most of them focus on housing issues. So renters, current and first time home buyers can get help from this HUD agency.

Current homeowners can receive free foreclosure assistance and counseling if they are struggling with their home loan.

The site processes applications for rent help from TBRA.

Counselors from Harvest America can advise families looking to buy a home in Kansas.

Other support is available too. More on Harvest America.

Free basic needs in Sedgwick County - This means that low to moderate income families can get help from non-monetary programs. There are clothing closets, free furniture banks and thrift stores that may offer support, such as the following.

Free Christmas toys, presents, and meals for children and seniors.

Back to work supplies, including backpacks or notebooks.

Clothing for work or referrals to employers in Wichita.

Other goods may be offered too, such as hygiene, furniture, or diapers. Find free clothes, furniture and clothing closets in Sedgwick County.

Housing counseling and foreclosure prevention assistance

Urban League of Kansas, which in partnership with the United Way, runs a service known as Help-In Housing. This is a fully staffed, comprehensive housing counseling service that provides a full range of housing and foreclosure counseling. As a HUD-approved counseling agency, its primary goal is to offer pre-purchase, post-purchase, pre-rental, mortgage default, first time homebuyer, foreclosure prevention, and financial literacy help.

There is also reverse mortgage, landlord/tenant mediation, rent advice, and fair housing counseling for customers in need. Click here for additional mortgage assistance programs, such as Hope for Homeowners, or dial (316) 262-2463.

Legal assistance programs

Low cost/free health care for low income and working poor

Brookside Satellite of Hunter Health Clinic is a private non-profit Community Health Center and Urban Indian Health Program that is involved in providing medical, dental, mental health to low income and poor. (316) 652-0152.

Good Samaritan Clinic - Low income Sedgwick County families can turn to this community clinic. (316) 688-5020

GraceMed Health Clinic is an affordable health care center. The organization accepts Medicaid as a form of payment for bills, KanCare, Medicare, and commercial insurance plans. Homeless residents of Sedwick County can get free care. Other low cost services include pediatric and wellness and prevention as well as dental. Address is 1122 N. Topeka, Wichita, KS 67214, or dial (316) 866-2000.

Community clinics, Medicaid, counselors and even patient advocates are all available in the county to address health care needs. Families that have a low income, or that lack health insurance, can get the support they need. Whether dental or medical, assistance is offered. Find more details on free community clinics in Kansas.

Free food in Sedgwick and Wichita

Bethany United Methodist Church runs an emergency food pantry for low income and other qualified residents. Call (316) 264-4240

Community Food Ministry - Provides emergency food needs for singles or families, and people can take advantage of the services up to 12 times per year. Dial (316) 267-4201

Wichita Dream Center - Dial (316) 550-6777. The non-profit can offer a box of food, groceries and choice of clothing articles for the entire family. Food is only offered 2nd Saturday from 9 - 11 am. All clothing, groceries, and food assistance is limited, however no proof of income is required by the non-profit. Address is 13303 W Maple, Wichita, Kansas 67235.

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Sedgwick County assistance programs | Wichita

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Low income families as well as struggling residents of Wichita and the county can get help. Charities, the government, and churches provide assistance for rent arrears, heating or utility bills, mortgages and other support. Find how to get free food, clothing, and other financial aid from the agencies below.

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Inequality is real, it's personal, it's expensive and it was created

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Become a Foster Parent with KVC - We'll Support You!

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Nearly 7,000 Kansas children and teens in foster care, and you can change a child's life by becoming a foster parent! Fostering provides a child who has experienced abuse or neglect with a safe, loving environment. On top of this, it gives you the opportunity to show a child the love and care they deserve while growing emotionally, mentally and spiritually as you teach life skills and give support. You will experience joy and may even discover a greater sense of purpose in your life.

Guidelines

The requirements for becoming a foster parent vary from state to state; however, to meet general requirements in Kansas you must:

Be at least 21 or older

Be able to meet basic income guidelines

Be free from any type of assistance including, but not limited to, Section 8 Housing, food stamps, TANF, or Medicaid

Be able to provide adequate bedroom space that meets local fire codes and have a separate bed for each child

Have reliable transportation

Be willing to complete 30 hours of free training in "Trauma-Informed Partnering for Safety and Permanency - Model Approach for Partnerships in Parenting" (TIPS-MAPP)

Agree to use non-physical discipline for children

Be willing for everyone in your household to undergo complete background checks. All licensees will be fingerprinted as a part of the federal Adam Walsh Act

Sign Me Up!
Our website has several resources that can help you get started. Our Frequently Asked Questions page goes over inquiries like "How do I get started?", and our blog covers a range of a range of helpful topics like Becoming A Foster Parent: Questions About Your First Placement. You can also contact one of our foster parent recruiters if you have any questions or visit our Frequently Asked Questions About Foster Care page.

About the Training Class

The "Trauma-Informed Partnering for Safety and Permanency - Model Approach for Partnerships in Parenting" (TIPS-MAPP) training is required by the state of Kansas for all prospective foster parents. This free course, led by certified professionals and experienced foster parents, is comprised of weekly three-hour meetings with some homework assignments. One or both of the TIPS-MAPP leaders will also visit you and your family in your home for a minimum of two home consultations. We offer the class over ten weeks (three hours per week) or you can complete it in just weekends.

The goal of TIPS-MAPP is to help prospective foster parents gain a better understanding of the skills and knowledge necessary for successful foster parenting. The process presents an opportunity for participants to make informed decisions about their willingness and readiness to become foster parents. Children's Alliance of Kansas describes this approach to helping prospective foster and adoptive parents make the decision to pursue foster parenting or adoption. Over the course of the training, parents assess their parenting skills, their desire and ability to work as partners in permanency planning, and their ability to meet the needs of children for safety, permanency, and well-being. Click here for more information about TIPS-MAPP in Kansas.

To enroll in TIPS-MAPP with KVC, please contact our caring team of Kansas foster parent recruiters!

Final Steps to Becoming Licensed

Once you and the caregivers in your home have completed the TIPS-MAPP training class and decide that you wish to become a licensed foster family with KVC, you will be assigned a Family Service Coordinator. The Family Service Coordinator will guide you through your journey. Initially, they will help you complete the Kansas Department for Health and Environment (KDHE) licensing applications and do walk-throughs of your home.

Once licensing forms are received and approved, KDHE will contact you to schedule a final health and safety check of your home prior to issuing a foster care license. All prospective foster parents are also required to receive training in First Aid and CPR, Medication Administration, and Universal Precautions.

We'll Support You the Whole Way

If you're considering becoming a foster parent, KVC Kansas is here to guide you every step of the way. We will provide you with:

Free ongoing training and support 24/7, 365 days/year

24-hour phone support

Health insurance for the child

Assistance finding local resources

A fun weekend away at our Resource Family Conference, which provides a fantastic learning experience for parents and children

Monthly reimbursement to meet the child's needs plus assistance with back-to-school supplies and holiday gifts.

Where does KVC Kansas provide foster care services?

We license foster families throughout the state in addition to providing foster care case management in 11 counties.

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Become a KVC Foster Parent in Kansas - Help Children, Find Your Life's Purpose

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Nearly 7,000 Kansas children and teens in foster care, and you can change a child's life by becoming a foster parent! Fostering provides a child who has experienced abuse or neglect with a safe, loving environment.

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Taken into foster care, through the eyes of a child

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National Meeting on Improving Educational Stability for Children in Foster Care

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The purpose of the meeting is to bring together State teams representing education and child welfare agencies, along with the judicial branch to discuss how best to promote educational stability and improve educational outcomes for children in foster care. Participating State teams are charged with creating a plan for cross-system collaboration to be implemented following the conference.

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In the U.S. today, approximately 400,000 children and youth are in foster care at any given time and each year about 20,000 of these students emancipate (i.e., age out) of foster care. A positive PK-12 education experience has the potential to be a powerful counterweight to the abuse, neglect, separation, impermanence and other barriers these vulnerable students experience. Additionally, participation in and persistence to a postsecondary credential can enhance their well-being, help them make more successful transitions to adulthood, and increase their chances for personal fulfillment and economic self-sufficiency.

National research shows that children in foster care are at high-risk of dropping out of school and are unlikely to attend or graduate from college. A coordinated effort by education agencies and child welfare agencies is necessary to improve the educational outcomes for students in foster care. Fortunately, the last few years have seen important policy, practice, and advocacy advances that address the education barriers and supports needed for these vulnerable students. Links to information about some of these advances can be found below:

Foster Care Transition Toolkit [ PDF, 1M]

The U.S. Department of Education, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and the U.S. Department of Labor, as well as foster youth and practitioners, developed this Foster Care Transition Toolkit to inspire and support current and former foster youth pursuing college and career opportunities. The toolkit includes tips and resources intended to help foster youth access and navigate social, emotional, educational and skills barriers as they transition into adulthood.

On June 23, 2016, the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released joint guidance to states, school districts and child welfare agencies on the new provisions in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) for supporting children in foster care. The guidance aims to assist state and local partners in understanding and implementing the new law, and to inform state and local collaboration between educational and child welfare agencies across the nation for the well-being of children in foster care. Of the approximately 400,000 children and youth in foster care, nearly 270,000 children in foster care are school-aged. Data show that foster youth are more likely than their peers to experience a host of barriers that lead to troubling outcomes, including low academic achievement, grade retention and lower high school graduation rates. Children in foster care often face steep challenges to school success, including high rates of mobility. The new protections for children in foster care under ESSA will apply to all children in foster care enrolled in public schools. This joint guidance builds upon a new focus in ESSA on the unique needs of foster youth and will equip local partners with an essential tool for implementing the new foster care provisions in ESSA successfully by December 10, 2016.

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at risk persons; high risk students; foster care

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In the U.S. today, approximately 400,000 children and youth are in foster care at any given time and each year about 20,000 of these students emancipate (i.e., age out) of foster care. A positive PK-12 education experience has the potential to be a powerful counterweight to the abuse, neglect, separation, impermanence and other barriers these vulnerable students experience.

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School-aged foster children are going to spend just as much time at school as they do at their foster homes. This puts teachers in a very unique position to support these children in special ways. Here are three ways that teachers can be a part of the foster child's support system.

Prepare the Class

The modern classroom has all kinds of family situations already represented. It is probably not hard for children to understand the nature of foster care. Educating the class on foster care prior to the arrival of the foster child can help smooth the transition into the classroom. This level of understanding from the classmates can help the foster child feel more secure and welcomed in the new environment.

Be Understanding and Patient

Foster children can carry a lot of trauma and baggage with them into the classroom. It is crucial the teacher understands this and is understanding, patient, and consistent. Know that trust is not something easily earned between adults and foster children. The teacher needs to learn as much as possible about the child's background and his or her unique situation. This can shed a lot of light on how the child acts in certain situations. Also, know that foster children can change schools quite often as they move homes. This can leave quite a number of gaps in their education. Assess where the child is academically and create a plan to help him or her perform the best way possible.

Be a role model and advocate for the foster child. Remember that most children have very few adult role models in their lives. This already puts them at a disadvantage. Being a teacher is especially unique because you see the child eight hours a day, five days a week. Use encouraging words and live a life worth respecting. And since the teacher spends so much time with the foster child, she is the perfect advocate for that child in social and academic settings.

Support the Foster Parents

Foster parents have a lot on their plates. Teachers can be a crucial part of the support team so desperately needed. Teachers can guide the parents in how to close the gaps in the child's education. Offering out of class tutoring can also be a huge help for already overwhelmed parents. Finally, understand that the foster parents don't have the whole picture of the child's past. This can make discipline for in-class behavior issues difficult at home. Foster parents shouldn't be held responsible for what goes on at school. In short, be as understanding, supportive, and encouraging as possible

Learn More About How Teachers Can Support the Foster Child

Do you want to learn more about your place in the foster care system? Please, don't hesitate to contact us.

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How Teachers Can Support the Foster Child - Pathway Family Services

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School-aged foster children are going to spend just as much time at school as they do at their foster homes. This puts teachers in a very unique position to support these children in special ways. Here are three ways that teachers can be a part of the foster child's support system.

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The Psychological Effects of Divorce on Children

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Find out how kids deal with the emotional impact of divorce. Learn ways you can reduce the likelihood they will experience long-lasting effects.

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For many people, their parents' divorce marks a turning point in their lives, whether the divorce happened many years ago or is taking place right now.

About half the marriages in the United States today end in divorce, so plenty of kids and teens have to go through this. But when it happens to you, you can feel very alone and unsure of what it all means.

It may seem hard, but it is possible to cope with divorce - and have a good family life in spite of some changes divorce may bring.

Why Are My Parents Divorcing?

Parents divorce for many reasons. Usually divorce happens when couples feel they can no longer live together due to fighting and anger, or because the love they had when they married has changed. Divorce also can be because one parent falls in love with someone else, and sometimes it's due to a serious problem like drinking, abuse, or gambling. Sometimes nothing bad happens, but parents just decide to live apart.

Did you know it's really common for teens to think that their parents' divorce is somehow their fault? Just try to remember that parents' decisions to split up are to do with issues between them, and not because of something you might have done or not done.

Some kids feel guilty about what happened, or wish they had prevented arguments by cooperating more within the family, doing better with their behavior, or getting better grades. But separation and divorce are a result of a couple's problems with each other, not with their kids. The decisions adults make about divorce are their own.

If your parents are divorcing, you may experience many feelings. Your emotions may change a lot, too. You may feel stressed out, angry, frustrated, or sad. You might feel protective of one parent or blame one for the situation. You may feel abandoned, afraid, worried, or guilty. You also may feel relieved, especially if there has been a lot of tension or fighting at home. These feelings are very typical and talking about them with a friend, family member, or trusted adult can really help.

Page 1

How Will Divorce Change My Life?

Depending on what happens in your family, you might have to adjust to many changes. These could include things like moving, changing schools, spending time with both parents separately, and perhaps dealing with parents' unpleasant feelings about one another.

Your parents may go to court to determine custody arrangements. You could end up living with one parent most of the time and visiting the other, or your parents may split their time with you evenly. At the beginning, it means you might have to be flexible and might have more hassles to deal with for a while.

Some teens have to travel between parents, and that can create challenges both socially and practically. Over time you can figure out a new routine that works for all of you. Often, it takes a while for custody arrangements to be finalized. This can give people time to adapt to these big changes and let families figure out what works best.

Money matters may change for your parents, too. A parent who didn't work during the marriage may need to find a job to pay for rent or a mortgage. This might be something a parent is excited about, but he or she may also feel nervous or pressured about finances. There are also expenses associated with divorce, from lawyers' fees to the cost of moving to a new place to live.

Your family may not be able to afford all the things you were used to before the divorce. This is one of the difficult changes often associated with divorce. There can be good changes too - but how you cope with the stressful changes depends on your situation, your personality, and your support network.

Page 2

What Parents and Teens Can Do to Make It Easier

Keep the peace. Dealing with divorce is easiest when parents get along. Teens find it especially hard when their parents fight and argue or act with bitterness toward each other. You can't do much to influence how your parents behave during a divorce, but you can ask them to do their best to call a truce to any bickering or unkind things they might be saying about each other.

No matter what problems a couple may face, as parents they need to handle visiting arrangements peacefully to minimize the stress their kids may feel. Letting your parents know that even though you know everyone is super-stressed, you don't want to get caught in the middle.

Be fair. Most teens say it's important that parents don't try to get them to "take sides." You need to feel free to hang out with and talk to each of your parents without the other parent acting jealous, hurt, or mad. It's unfair for anyone to feel that talking to one parent is being disloyal to the other or that the burden of one parent's happiness is on your shoulders.

When parents find it hard to let go of bitterness or anger, or if they are depressed about the changes brought on by divorce, they can find help from a counselor or therapist. This can help parents get past the pain divorce may have created, to find personal happiness, and to lift any burdens from their kids.

Kids and teens also can benefit from seeing a family therapist or someone who specializes in helping them get through the stress of a family breakup. It might feel weird at first to talk to someone you don't know about personal feelings, but it can be really helpful to hear about how other teens in your situation have coped.

Keep in touch. Going back and forth between two homes can be tough, especially if parents live far apart. It can be a good idea to keep in touch with a parent you see less often because of distance. Even a quick email saying "I'm thinking of you" helps ease the feelings of missing each other. Making an effort to stay in touch when you're apart can keep both of you up to date on everyday activities and ideas.

Work it out. You may want both parents to come to special events, like games, meets, plays, or recitals. But sometimes a parent may find it awkward to attend if the other is present. It helps if parents can figure out a way to make this work, especially because you may need to feel the support and presence of both parents even more during divorce. You might be able to come up with an idea for a compromise or solution to this problem and suggest it to both parents.

Talk about the future. Many teens whose parents divorce worry that their own plans for the future could be affected. Some are concerned that the costs of divorce (like legal fees and expenses of two households) might mean there will be less money for college or other things.

Pick a good time to tell your parents about your concerns - when there's enough time to sit down with one or both parents to discuss how the divorce will affect you. Don't worry about putting added stress on your parents, just try to pick a good time to talk when everyone is feeling calm. It's better to bring your concerns into the open than to keep them to yourself and let worries or resentment build. There are solutions for most problems and advisors and counselors who can help teens and their parents find those solutions.

Figure out your strengths. How do you deal with stress? Do you get angry and take it out on siblings, friends, or yourself? Or are you someone who is a more of a pleaser who puts others first? Do you tend to avoid conflict altogether and just hope that problems will magically disappear?

A life-changing event like a divorce can put people through some tough times, but it can also help them learn about their strengths, and put in place some new coping skills. For example, how can you cope if one parent bad-mouths another? Sometimes staying quiet until the anger has subsided and then discussing it calmly with your mom or dad can help. You may want to tell them you have a right to love both your parents, no matter what they are doing to each other.

If you need help figuring out your strengths or how to cope - like from a favorite aunt or from your school counselor - ask for it! And if you find it hard to confront your parents, try writing them a letter. Figure out what works for you.

Live your life. Sometimes during a divorce, parents may be so caught up in their own changes it can feel like your own life is on hold. In addition to staying focused on your own plans and dreams, make sure you participate in as many of your normal activities as possible. When things are changing at home, it can really help to keep some things, such as school activities and friends, the same.

If things get too hard at home, see if you can stay with a friend or relative until things calm down. Take care of yourself by eating right and getting regular exercise - two great stress busters! Figure out what's important to you - spending time with friends, working hard at school, writing or drawing, or being great at basketball. Finding your inner strength and focusing on your own goals can really help your stress levels.

Let others support you. Talk about your feelings and reactions to the divorce with someone you trust. If you're feeling down or upset, let your friends and family members support you. These feelings usually pass. If they don't, and if you're feeling depressed or stressed out, or if it's hard to concentrate on your normal activities, let a counselor or therapist help you. Your parents, school counselor, or a doctor or other health professional can help you find one.

Many communities and schools have support groups for kids and teens whose parents have divorced. It can really help to talk with other people your age who are going through similar experiences.

Page 3

Bringing Out the Positive

There will be ups and downs in the process, but teens can cope successfully with their parents' divorce and the changes it brings. You might even discover some unexpected positives. Many teens find their parents are actually happier after the divorce or they may develop new and better ways of relating to both parents when they have separate time with each one.

Some teens learn compassion and caring skills when a younger brother or sister needs their support and care. Siblings who are closer in age may form tighter bonds, learning to count on each other more because they're facing the challenges of their parents' divorce together.

Coping well with divorce also can bring out strength and maturity. Some become more responsible, better problem solvers, better listeners, or better friends. Looking back on the experience, lots of people say that they learned coping skills they never knew they had and feel stronger and more resilient as a result of what they went through.

Many movies have been made about divorce and stepfamilies - some with happy endings, some not. That's how it is in real life too. But most teens who go through a divorce learn (sometimes to their surprise) that they can make it through this difficult situation successfully.

Giving it time, letting others support you along the way, and keeping an eye on the good things in your life can make all the difference.

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For many people, their parents' divorce marks a turning point in their lives, whether the divorce happened many years ago or is taking place right now. About half the marriages in the United States today end in divorce, so plenty of kids and teens have to go through this.

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The impact of divorce on children: Tamara D. Afifi at TEDxUCSB

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Kim Leon
Human Development State Extension Specialist

Leanne Spengler
Human Development Specialist, Pike County

Approximately one of every two divorces in Missouri (51 percent) involves children. Although children whose parents divorce are at greater risk for problems such as aggression, depression, lower self-esteem and poorer school performance, most children adjust to the divorce successfully. However, the adjustment process is stressful and takes time. It is typical for children to experience distress for 1 to 2 years following the divorce.

Schools can play an important role in helping children make a positive adjustment to their parents' divorce. This guide suggests ways that schools, preschools and childcare centers can support children through difficult family transitions. By working together, families and schools can form a network of support that promotes healthy child development.

There are four key elements of successful family-school relationships - approach, attitudes, atmosphere and action. These four categories organize ideas for how schools can support children through family transitions.

Approach

The approach is the framework used for working with families. The partnership approach emphasizes families and schools working together toward the shared goal of ensuring all students' success in school. Using a partnership model involves three things:

Two-way communication

Appreciating family strengths

Mutual problem-solving

Two-way communication is essential for a successful partnership. This means that parents keep teachers informed about important events in their child's home life, and teachers keep parents informed about their child's school activities. If parents have recently experienced stressful life transitions, such as divorce or remarriage, their attention may be focused on the events in their lives. It may take extra initiative from teachers to obtain information.

Appreciating family strengths is also essential for forming a successful partnership. All families have strengths, even if they face many challenges. Some strengths of single-parent families and stepfamilies are:

Flexibility
Children learn to adapt to changes and to live in environments with different rules and expectations

Multiple role models and extended kin network
Children living in stepfamilies often have several adult role models in their lives and a large network of grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Greater independence and maturity
Children living in single-parent families may be given greater responsibility for household tasks. They can gain a sense of competence and independence if they are given a reasonable number (not too many) of tasks they are capable of doing.

Negotiation and conflict resolution skills
When parents divorce and are able to negotiate and resolve conflicts in a constructive manner, children learn from their parents' example.

Parents who love them
Most children with divorced parents have one or more parents who nurture and support them, which is a very important resource for a child living in any type of family.

A third element of working with parents as partners is mutual problem-solving. When a problem arises, the teacher and parent work together to solve the problem. Both teacher and parent provide their perspectives on the problem and come up with solutions together.

Attitudes

Attitudes can foster partnership or create a barrier to partnership. Viewing parent involvement as a continuum, rather than categories (uninvolved vs. involved) helps develop partnerships with parents. This means taking the perspective that all parents are involved to some degree. Some parents are involved at a high level, acting as active partners and educational leaders at home and school, whereas others are involved at lower levels, acting as a recipients of education and support from the school. For parents experiencing transitions such as divorce or remarriage, lower levels of involvement may be all that are possible.

Attitudes are often shaped by our own experiences, professional and personal, in childhood and adulthood. For example, if your parents are divorced or you have experienced a divorce, those experiences may color your attitudes about divorced parents and their children. If you have worked with a family that had an especially hostile divorce, that experience may affect how you think about divorced parents. It is important to be aware of our attitudes about families. By knowing what our attitudes are, we can ask ourselves where those attitudes come from, and decide whether they are accurate or not. Becoming familiar with research on divorce and families can help in developing informed attitudes.

It is also important to be aware of parents' attitudes, which range from avoiding involvement with school to being overly involved. Most parents fall somewhere in the middle - they are happy to be involved on occasion if they are approached. Parents' attitudes are often influenced by their own experiences with school as a child. Those who had positive experiences at school may be more willing to be involved. Parents who understand the school system in the U.S. and come from similar cultures may be more likely to get involved than parents who are from cultures in which school personnel are viewed as authorities rather than partners. Parent involvement is also greater when parents perceive the school environment as warm, but structured, with clear limits and routines.

Atmosphere

An essential part of supporting divorced parents and their children is creating an atmosphere that welcomes all types of families and encourages involvement of all adults that play an important role in the child's life. One of the primary ways of creating such a welcoming atmosphere is through communication with parents. Communication that creates a welcoming atmosphere includes:

Communicating with both parents

Often, mothers manage most of the communication with the other adults in a child's life, such as child care providers, teachers and coaches. After a divorce, many assume that the communications will continue to be with the mother. However, in most cases, both parents should be actively involved in communicating with other adults in the child's life. Both parents should have equal access to health and school records unless there is legal documentation, such as a protective order, prohibiting access.

The parenting plan is a document that details how the parents will provide for the care and well-being of the child, which includes the residential and legal custody arrangements as well as the financial responsibilities of each parent. Sole legal custody gives one parent the decision-making rights, responsibilities, and authority related to the health, education and welfare of the child. Joint legal custody gives parents shared decision-making rights, responsibilities, and authority related to the health, education and welfare of the child. Physical custody designates where the child will reside and who provides the care and supervision.

Involving the nonresidential parent in school activities

Nonresidential parents often feel excluded by institutions and organizations, including schools. Invite nonresidential parents to participate in school activities, programs, and field trips. Involving the nonresidential parent in school activities encourages and supports that parent's involvement in the child's life.

Sensitivity to family diversity

Avoid terms that may be offensive to some families, such as "broken home," or "real parent." Don't assume that individuals in the same family have the same last name. Be sensitive to family differences when writing invitations for family members to participate in school activities - for example, "Bring your grandparent or grandfriend."

Using a variety of formal and informal methods to communicate with families

Parent orientation nights
Offer multiple parent orientation nights at different times and days of the week.

Develop a system for keeping track of family changes
Collect parent information cards Sample (PDF) at the beginning of the year. Send them out again mid-year, asking parents to make changes as needed.

Offer parent-teacher conferences at times convenient for parents
Offer opportunities for divorced parents to have separate conferences. Some divorced parents may be able to attend conferences together, but if there is hostility between parents, it is probably better for them to attend separately.

Notes home
Make sure that the nonresidential parent receives notes, unless there is a court order that limits the parent's access. Some teachers make up a weekly packet of information that the parent can pick up. This is more reliable than expecting the child to get the information to both parents.

Telephone calls
If possible, make calls to both the residential parent and nonresidential parent. Sending a note home at the start of the year to find out when parents are available for telephone calls may make it easier to reach parents. Call parents to share both positive information and concerns.

Action

Schools are in a prime position to offer support to children experiencing family transitions because they reach large numbers of families. There are several ways that require minimal time investment for teachers to support children experiencing parental divorce:

Provide resources to promote positive parent-child relationships

You can set up a parent information center or lending library, perhaps with the help of a parent volunteer. Consider providing information or resources on the following topics:

Stages of child development

Children's responses to family transitions, such as divorce and remarriage

Coparenting

Single parenting

Building family rituals and traditions

Community resources

Basic parenting strategies

Encourage all parents to monitor their children's school progress

Children's school performance may be affected when then their parents divorce. However, if children continue to achieve in school, they are less likely to develop other problems. Parents may need information about how to help their children succeed in school. Send home a handout at the beginning and middle of the school year offering tips for improving study habits. If a child is having problems with completing homework assignments, talk with parents about using daily report cards to facilitate communication between home and school.

Encourage all parents to engage in learning activities with their child at home

This is the most effective form of parent involvement for promoting student achievement. There are a variety of learning activities parents can do with their children at home. For example, parents can be encouraged to read, explore educational websites, or play word or number games with their children, help with homework, and take their children on educational outings, such as museums or the public library.

Encourage parent networking

Rebuilding a supportive network is an important part of the process of parents' adjustment to divorce. Schools can provide opportunities for parents to interact with other parents. One way to do this is to recruit parent volunteers to coordinate events for parents, such as breakfast at school. Parents may be able to attend a breakfast meeting before work. Another idea is to ask a parent volunteer to create a parent-to-parent newsletter. Parents can contribute articles and the teacher could notify parents about upcoming events in the newsletter. Finally, a parent volunteer can recruit other parents to participate in school activities, making a special effort to reach out to single parents, nonresidential parents and stepparents.

Classroom activities and materials

There are many ways you can integrate efforts to support children with divorced parents into your daily classroom routine. You can incorporate activities that:

Encourage understanding of different types of families

Help children communicate about their family

Increase self-esteem

Help children appropriately express feelings

Support positive parent-child relationships

Such activities benefit all children - not just those who have experienced parental divorce. You can also choose curriculum materials that portray different types of families positively. Finally, if you include activities that may make some children feel excluded or uncomfortable, such as making Mother's Day or Father's Day cards or gifts, adapt them so that all children feel included. Allow children to make items for all of the significant adults in their lives, if possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, many children experience parental divorce and live in a stepfamily for part of their lives. Schools can support children through family transitions by taking a partnership approach, having informed attitudes, creating an atmosphere that welcomes all types of families, and taking action that supports all children and parents.

References

Berger, E. H. (2000). Parents as Partners in Education: Families and Schools Working Together. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.

Christensen, S.L, & Sheridan, S.M. (2001). Schools and Families: Creating Essential Connections for Learning. New York: The Guilford Press.

Coleman, M., Ganong, L.H., & Henry, J. (1984). What teachers should know about stepfamilies. Childhood Education, 60, 306-309.

Long, N. and Forehand, R. (2002). Making Divorce Easier on Your Child: 50 Effective Ways to Help Children Adjust. Chicago: Contemporary Books.

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Helping Children Adjust to Divorce: A Guide for Teachers | MU Extension

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Approximately 51% of divorces in Missouri involves children. Visit our site for our Helping Children Adjust to Divorce: A Guide for Teachers resource. | Kim LeonHuman Development State Extension SpecialistLeanne SpenglerHuman Development Specialist, Pike CountyApproximately one of every two divorces in Missouri (51 percent) involves children.

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Inform Other Adults in Your Child's Life

It's not just parents who can offer support to kids during a separation or divorce. Teachers, coaches, parents of friends, and other adults close to your child can all help in being there for kids to help them through this difficult time.

It might be hard for you to have these conversations, but it might be even harder for your kids to have them with these people. You certainly don't have to share all the details of what's going on. Just knowing that your child is facing a certain situation at home can help these other adults navigate how they interact with your child.

Look for Extra Support at School

You can't predict how your child will feel day by day about your separation. New emotions take time to process and can overwhelm children when they least expect it, even when at school.

Research the support options offered by your child's school. Many school counselors are well-experienced in supporting children going through their parents' divorce. Some schools also offer student support groups for changing families, stress management, or grief.

Once you know what's offered at their school, fill your child in about what's available. Pushing them to meet with a counselor or attend a group might be off-putting, so try to get make the information available to them in a way that won't make them immediately uncomfortable. Let them know that there are resources at school if they want to check them out.

It's important to get kids the right help if they are having a very difficult time that is impacting their health, safety, or other areas in their life. In this situation, consult with a mental health professional on how to get the help they need.

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How to Help Kids Have a Better Back-to-School Experience After a Recent Separation

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It's not just parents who can offer support to kids during a separation or divorce. Teachers, coaches, parents of friends, and other adults close to your child can all help in being there for kids to help them through this difficult time.

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Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service

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Unaccompanied Children at the Border Explained