September 24, 2024

Supporting LGBTQ+ Students: Meaningful Approaches for School Psychologists with Katie Peterson

33 minutes

In this episode of the Prepared School Psych Podcast, host Jenny interviews Katie Peterson, a nationally certified school psychologist with extensive experience in special education and mental health. Katie discusses her advocacy for LGBTQ+ students, the importance of supporting these students, and shares actionable steps for school psychologists to create inclusive environments. She highlights the effectiveness of GSA clubs, using affirming pronouns, and staying informed on evolving laws. Katie also shares personal anecdotes and resources to help school psychologists navigate and implement supportive strategies.

Resources:

GSA Network: Creating/running GSA Clubs

10 Steps to Starting a GSA Club

Advisor Handbook

GLSEN

Safe Space Kit

Model Policies to protect trans/gender non-binary students

National School Climate Survey

Rainbow Library

24-25 School Year Calendar

Ready, Set, Respect! Elementary Toolkit

Trevor Project

Trevor Research Briefs

Creating Safer Spaces in Schools for LGBTQ Young People

How to Signal You are an Ally in Hostile Environment

Gender Spectrum

Gender Inclusive Schools

Gender-related resources for families and educators, including the Gender Support Plan

HRC's Welcoming Schools

Lessons that are tied to Common Core curriculum standards

Welcoming Schools Annual Report

Book lists

Advocates 4 Trans Equality

Model District Policy on Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students

Trans 101

Know Your Rights at School (student-facing)

LGBTMap & Anti-Trans Bill Tracker: Places to check your state for laws that protect (or threaten) LGBTQ+ folks

Safe Zone Project

Fantastic glossary of terms

NASP LGBTQ+ Resources [some resources require NASP membership to access]

Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth When Policies Mandate Discrimination (PDF)

Transgender and Gender Diverse Readiness Assessment (PDF)

Other helpful resources not mentioned specifically on the podcast:

ACLU Schools in Transition: A Guide for Supporting Transgender Students in K-12 Schools

Trans Student Educational Resources: Great Gender Unicorn graphics that are a fun activity for students (and adults!)

Lambda Legal : Students Rights

SFSU Family Acceptance Project

Somos Familia

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Instagram: @jennyponzuric https://www.instagram.com/jennyponzuric/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ponzuric-1562a8119/

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

01:06 Katie's Personal Interests and Welcome

01:31 Favorite TV Shows and Icebreaker

02:08 Professional Journey and LGBTQ+ Advocacy

03:54 Navigating Legal Challenges in LGBTQ+ Support

08:01 Starting and Supporting GSA Clubs

16:48 Personal Motivation and Impact

28:14 Advice for New School Psychologists

30:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.

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By Jenny Ponzuric

4.8

1616 ratings