LGBTQIA+ Information and Resources
The VASD grounds all work in the Equity Framework and Strategic Framework. In the Verona Area School District, our mission is that each student will acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve their personal goals, thrive in a diverse global society, and lead a healthy, self-fulfilling life. To meet this mission, the Verona Area School District will ensure that every individual has access to the educational, social, and emotional support they need to feel valued and affirmed in their unique identities and experiences. We acknowledge that inequities and power dynamics exist in our system such that some individuals, on the basis of their identities*, face barriers to accessing the opportunities they need to experience success. In acknowledgment of such, the Verona Area School District is committed to disrupting these systems of inequity.
equity framework strategic framework
LGBTQIA+ is an inclusive term that includes people of all genders and sexualities, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex, asexual, pansexual, and allies. While each letter in LGBTQIA+ stands for a specific group of people, the term encompasses the entire spectrum of gender fluidity and sexual identities.
5 Tips for Students & Caregivers
- Learn about LGBTQ+ issues and mental health warning signs:
- Take the time to understand LGBTQ+ identities, experiences, and challenges.
- Educate yourself about the warning signs of mental health concerns.
- Listen actively and with compassion
- Respect their identity. Celebrate, educate, normalize their identity.
- Help create a safe and accepting environment
- Support their access to mental health resources when needed: American Psychiatric Association
Gender Support Plan Request
Students may request a Gender Support Plan to address needs and supports, such as identifying safe spaces, handling bullying, and/or determining where to change for PE classes.
To create a plan, students and/or caregivers can make an appointment with their school counselor or any trusted member of the Pupil Services Team.
If you are a high school student: to make an appointment to see your school counselor, stop by a 2nd floor north satellite office, or use the counseling team QR codes posted around the high school.
Support Resources
- PFLAG Madison Parents for Lesbians and Gays is a national organization supporting adults with becoming allies for the LGBTQ+ youth in their lives. The Madison chapter of PFLAG holds support groups for parents, fundraisers, and educational settings.
- GSAFE Statewide - Professional development for educators, GSA support, youth leadership. GSAFE increases the capacity of LGBTQ youth and students, educational staff, and families to create school environments.
- GLSEN National GSA organization centered around training school staff to be inclusive, intersectional accomplices in LGBTQ+ equity work. Facets of programming include: connecting directly with educators, inclusive and affirming curriculum, policy work, supporting GSAs, and research institute.
- OUTReach LGBTQ+ Community Center