The At-Risk Kids Schools Ignore

Abstract:
Gay and lesbian students are a population in need, but they are largely overlooked by school officials, counselors and educators. They are involved in risk behaviors such as drug use and unprotected sex and are much more likely than their heterosexual peers to drop out of school or commit suicide. Because the topic of homosexuality is taboo, particularly in the school setting, the needs of this population are unmet. The author discusses the possible roles of school officials in addressing this topic, the likely obstacles to identification of gays and lesbians as a distinct at-risk population and the role of schools in keeping all students, including homosexuals, safe and educating them to the hazards of risk behaviors. This article also includes subsequent letters to the editor expressing opinions to both the article and the topic.

Author(s): STOVER, Del

Publication: The Executive Educator


Date Published: 3/1/1992

Pages: 5

Location Code: 6106