Abstract: This project presents guidelines and resources for dealing effectively and positively with homosexuality in public schools. As the gay rights movement progresses and the civil rights of homosexual persons continue to receive legal affirmation, gays and lesbians who have kept their sexual orientation hidden will become more open about their personal lives. School systems must be prepared for gay and lesbian adolescents to seek affirmation of their identities as well. Suggestions are given for staff development that encourage teachers, counselors and administrators to examine and challenge personal biases, gain an understanding of the plight of the homosexual adolescent, and promote comfortable discussion of homosexuality in school. Participants are introduced to information regarding homosexuality that is based on scientific research and is in compliance with the standards of the American Psychiatric Association, American Counseling Association and National Education Association. Schools are encouraged to set policies that discourage discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and that promote a healthy educational environment for all students. Twenty-eight appendixes constitute two-thirds of the document. Methods of counseling and intervention with homosexual students and their parents are presented, in addition to lesson plans that appropriately incorporate homosexual themes into current high school curricula. Resources for self-help and ongoing education are also offered, along with an attitudes and behaviors questionnaire and discussion questions. (Contains 41 references.) (KW)

Title: Creating a Positive Educational Environment for Gay and Lesbian Adolescents: Guidelines and Resources for Staff Development, Curriculum Integration, and School-Based Counseling Services.
Author: Armstrong, Matthew
Note: 79p.; Master's Practicum Project, Heidelberg College.
Publication Year: 15 Jan 1994
Document Type: Practicum Paper (043); Test, Questionnaire (160)
Target Audience: Parents
ERIC Identifier: ED386613
Clearinghouse Identifier: CG026397
This document is available from the ERIC Document Reproduction Service.

Descriptors: * Adolescent Development; Adolescents; Counseling; Educational Opportunities; Homophobia; * Homosexuality; Lesbianism; * Public Schools; Secondary Education; Sexual Harassment; * Sexual Identity; * Social Bias; * Social Discrimination; Suicide