Supporting Gender Diverse Students in the School Setting: A Pilot Project

Bullying, high-risk behaviors, and rejection from family and friends leave lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and other (LGBTQ+) students feeling unsafe and unsupported at school. These adverse events can lead to serious physical, social, and mental health challenges including depression and suicidal ideation. This clinical nursing change project examined the effects of an educational intervention on school staff knowledge, confidence, and self-efficacy in supporting LGBTQ+ youth at school. Project findings suggest that gender inclusive education may be an effective way to increase knowledge, confidence, and self-efficacy among school staff members, thus promoting a safe and inclusive school environment.