10 Questions Parents Should Ask When Choosing a School for Their Trans or Gender-Expansive Child

As parents and caregivers of trans and gender-expansive children, ensuring a supportive and safe school environment is a top priority. Schools play a crucial role in affirming your child's identity and fostering a sense of belonging. Before choosing a school, it's important to ask specific questions that will give you insight into how the institution supports LGBTQ+ students. Here are ten questions to guide you during your search:

1. What do you do to protect and empower your trans students?  

Start by asking the school what proactive measures they take to create an environment where trans and gender-expansive students can thrive. Schools should have clear initiatives, whether through inclusive policies, student-led advocacy groups, or administrative efforts aimed at creating a culture of safety and respect.

2. What specific policies and procedures are in place to ensure the safety and inclusion of trans and non-binary students?  

Policies are key to ensuring that your child is protected and supported. Look for formal guidelines regarding bullying, harassment, and discrimination. These policies should be explicitly inclusive of trans and non-binary students, outlining specific protections for gender identity and expression.

3. How does the school approach issues like name changes, pronoun usage, and gender markers in student records?  

It’s crucial to know how the school handles name and gender marker changes in both informal settings and official records. Does the school allow students to use their chosen name and pronouns in classrooms, yearbooks, and other records? Are these changes respected by teachers and staff across the board?

4. What training do teachers and staff receive on LGBTQ+ issues, particularly around supporting trans students?  

Teachers and staff are on the front lines of student interactions. Ensure the school provides regular and comprehensive training on LGBTQ+ issues, with a focus on the unique needs of trans and gender-expansive students. This training should cover respectful language use, creating inclusive classrooms, and managing common challenges trans students may face.

5. How does the school handle situations where students or staff misgender a student, whether intentionally or unintentionally?  

Misgendering, whether intentional or not, can have a significant emotional impact on trans students. Ask about the school’s protocol for addressing these situations. Is there a restorative approach to educating those involved, or is it handled as a disciplinary issue? Ensuring that the school responds effectively will help your child feel respected and supported.

6. What facilities are available for trans and non-binary students (such as bathrooms, locker rooms, etc.) to ensure their comfort and privacy?  

Access to gender-affirming facilities is essential for a student's safety and well-being. Ask what options exist for bathrooms, locker rooms, and changing areas, and whether students are allowed to use the facilities that align with their gender identity. Some schools offer gender-neutral or private facilities, which can be important for students' comfort and privacy.

7. How are LGBTQ+ topics, especially around gender diversity, incorporated into the school’s curriculum?  

Representation matters. A school that actively integrates LGBTQ+ topics, particularly around gender diversity, into its curriculum fosters a more inclusive environment. Ask how these topics are covered in class discussions, literature, history lessons, or health education. An inclusive curriculum helps normalize diverse identities and experiences, making it easier for your child to feel seen and understood.

8. What kinds of support groups or peer networks are available for LGBTQ+ students?  

Peer support can be incredibly valuable for your child as they navigate their identity. Inquire about LGBTQ+ student groups, such as Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) or other networks where students can find community. These groups often provide a safe space for students to share experiences, access resources, and feel supported by their peers.

9. How does the school respond to bullying or harassment based on gender identity?  

Bullying and harassment are, unfortunately, common experiences for LGBTQ+ students. Understanding the school’s response to these issues is critical. Ask how incidents are reported, what consequences are in place, and whether there are restorative practices to prevent future occurrences. A zero-tolerance approach to harassment based on gender identity is essential for creating a safe learning environment.

10. How does the school engage with families of LGBTQ+ students, and are there resources or support systems for parents?  

Finally, find out how the school communicates with and supports families of LGBTQ+ students. Are there resources for parents to better understand gender diversity? Do they offer parent workshops or family support groups? A school that actively involves families can help create a more cohesive support system for your child both at school and at home.

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