Ernest Neeley: LGBT kids need positive role models in society

LGBT kids are at high risk for school failure in California (harassment, low self-esteem, depression, etc.). I see it in my sixth grade class and hear about it from colleagues as well.

California schools have a solution in Senate Bill 48 (Fair Education Act). The bill states teachers shall highlight the positive contributions of lesbian and gay Americans and portray accurately homosexuals in contemporary society, resulting in less bullying and greater self-esteem.

Most California schools are ignoring the law and have chosen not to implement it.

Fortunately the CDE has just posted its interim History Social-Science frameworks, “students should see representatives from their own minority groups, including sexual orientation, on a regular basis,” chapter 20 equal access, and “there are safety needs” of LGBT students.

Unlike kids from other minority groups that often have the support of family and churches, LGBT kids are sometimes sadly rejected from family and church. Let’s not let schools be another source of rejection, but a safe place to express and be oneself, free from discrimination and harassment.

Research shows at least 5 percent of the population identify themselves as LGBT. That’s one or two students in every class of 30.

This story was originally published February 24, 2016 at 11:48 AM with the headline "Ernest Neeley: LGBT kids need positive role models in society."