Unable to attend the live broadcast? Register to watch the recording and still earn SCECHs. Participants need to watch the recording and complete the google survey by 05/01/22 to earn SCECHs. A zoom link to the recording will be sent to you with your event registration.
Previously Recorded: Best Practices for School Psychologists in
Meeting the Needs of LGBTQ+ Youth
Free for members and only $10 for non-members
2.0 SCECHs will be offered.
The climate of acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals is slowly improving in Michigan and across the country but many schools remain unsafe for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ+) youth. Educators have much work to do to make schools safe and affirming for all students, including LGBTQ+ youth. In particular, school psychologists are charged with upholding professional ethics and best practices to protect the dignity and rights of LGBTQ+ youth and ensure an equal educational opportunity. MASP and NASP (National Association of School Psychologists) have long-standing commitments to advocacy efforts aimed at ensuring that schools are safe and inclusive learning environments for all students. Students who are LGBTQ+ are among schools’ most vulnerable youth, experiencing bullying and harassment at disproportionately high levels (Kosciw, Greytak, Palmer, & Boesen, 2014). The victimization that occurs at school puts LGBTQ+ students at risk for negative mental health outcomes and reduced academic success. School psychologists play an important role in turning around these negative trajectories by helping to foster a school climate that promotes acceptance of diversity and a positive learning environment for the total student population. Relevant resources will be identified and shared to assist school psychologists with the implementation of strategies to ensure a safe and supportive school environment for LGBTQ+ youth.
Learning Objectives:
(1) This session will help participants to identify risk factors facing LGBTQ+ youth and how these impact mental health and school performance.
(2) This session will empower participants to develop and utilize skills resources to address inclusivity, supportive practices, and the mental health needs of LGBTQ+ youth.
(3) This session will help participants utilize the Michigan State Board of Education's Statement and Guidance on Safe and Supportive Learning Environments for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ) Students to promote best practices in meeting the needs of LGBTQ+ students.
Presenter/facilitator Bios: