Teaching Respect: LGBT-Inclusive Curriculum and School Climate

Abstract

For many students who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT), school is a hostile environment that can negatively affect academic performance and personal well-being. One strategy that educators can employ to promote safe and affirming school environments is including positive representations of LGBT people, history, and events in the curriculum. Among the LGBT students in GLSEN's 2009 National School Climate Survey, attending a school with an LGBT-inclusive curriculum was related to a less-hostile school experience for LGBT students as well as increased feelings of connectedness to their school communities. Despite these benefits, the vast majority of LGBT students do not have access to an inclusive curriculum