All across the world, LGBTQ+ people form and find community, drawn together by common experiences. In this discussion-based peer support group, we will build our own supportive and loving community as we get to know each other and support each other through the challenges and joys of growing up LGBTQ+. 

Building relationships in a class like this is critical to creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable sharing personal experiences. So, the bulk of this class will be spent sharing joys and challenges of each of us experienced in the last week and socializing in a way that encourages students to build relationships with others in the class. When students have questions about the LGBTQ+ community and its many identities, we will learn from each other's experiences and when needed, I will present resources to help students learn more about this wonderful, diverse, and complex community. 

*Note: As I have recently returned to full-time, in-person teaching, this is the only section I will be able to teach during the school year. I hope to teach more over the summer. This group has been meeting for about 6 months and is an excellent group of kids! * 

Here is a sample schedule of topics we may cover each week. (Note: The current section has moved beyond this topic schedule and is most a peer support / social group. 

Week 1: Labels and Identity
Week 2 : Gender Identity and Expression
Week 3 : Sexual Orientation and Romantic Orientation
Week 4 : Trans Identities  

These topics will act as a starting point, but the discussion will never be limited to just one thing--as students participate, the conversation will flow naturally. Students will have the opportunity to both respond to each other directly and respond to me directly. 

The goal of this class is for LGBTQ+ students to feel seen, heard, and cared for, and to find belonging in our virtual community. Therefore, student voice, choice, and interest will always come first. Where the discussion goes will depend on student interest and engagement. However, no matter what, I will facilitate the discussion to ensure that it is positive, supportive, and on-topic to the topic of the class. 

My hope is that as students get to know each other more, students in this class will lift one another up and build lasting friendships. They will find belonging and support that they can count on and gain confidence to walk into any space in the world--virtual or otherwise--with the belief that they always belong. 

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions. I look forward to meeting your student!