Author Archives: Lara Klopp

Interview with Bisexual 9th Grader Nafeeza

In this episode, I speak with Nafeeza, a bisexual 9th grader who participated in two protests of Florida’s Don’t Say Gay bill – one of which she organized. Nafeeza bravely talks about bullying she has experienced, including being told to die, and the lack of response from her administration.

Interview with Students Hailey and Taylor from Winter Springs High School about Florida’s New Don’t Say Gay Bill

In this episode of Creating Safe Schools, I interview high school seniors Hailey and Taylor about organizing their school’s protest of Florida’s new bill, dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, HB 1557.

Interview with Andromeda about Being an LGBTQ Adolescent, and Florida’s New Don’t Say Gay Bill HB 1557

In this podcast I’m speaking with Andromeda, a non-binary adolescent in Florida who goes by the pronouns they/them. They spoke with me about how being LGBTQ affected their social relationships growing up, about their school environment, and about the recent Florida Don’t Say Gay bill, designed to prevent discussion of LGBTQ related issues in Florida’sContinue reading “Interview with Andromeda about Being an LGBTQ Adolescent, and Florida’s New Don’t Say Gay Bill HB 1557”

10-Meeting Jump Start Curriculum

Start Your GSA Off on the Right Foot It’s wonderful to have your GSA approved, your sponsor in place, and to begin planning your first meeting. GSAs can have different goals, and yours is probably defined in your mission statement. But all GSAs serve certain functions – creating a safe and welcoming space for students,Continue reading “10-Meeting Jump Start Curriculum”

Writing a Mission Statement

What is the Purpose of a Mission Statement? A mission statement is your club’s way of letting people know why you exist. What are your primary goals? What do you want to accomplish? Every club is different and goals will vary – some students want to engage in advocacy in the school and the community;Continue reading “Writing a Mission Statement”

Creating a Proposal Letter

So you are ready to begin the process of creating your school’s GSA. Start by submitting your proposal to the school administration. Talk with your administration before you apply, and, if possible, ally with them so that everyone is working toward the same goal – a safer, more inclusive school for all. Make sure youContinue reading “Creating a Proposal Letter”