Pomona Unified School District

is proud to be part of the OUT for Safe Schools campaign, which has been launched to ensure that LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning) students and their families feel welcomed and affirmed on all school campuses. According to the 2021-22 California Healthy Kids Survey, at least 12 percent of PUSD students in middle and high school grades identify as LGBTQ.

Unfortunately, many LGBTQ youths find their school environments to be hostile and dangerous. Nationally, LGBTQ students continue to be at greater risk of dropping out of school and experiencing depression, violence, harassment, substance use and addiction, homelessness, HIV infection, and the ultimate tragedy - suicide - at much higher rates than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. (Ryan C., 2010) This climate can affect not only LGBTQ students' educational success, but also their psychological well-being. (Kosciw et al., 2014, p.48).

PUSD is thrilled to participate in this campaign by providing tools to staff members that enable them to be visible resources for students and families. By wearing an OUT for Safe Schools badge, school site personnel have the opportunity to declare that they are safe space ambassadors and show that they are allies to all LGBTQ students.

While the focus of the campaign is on LGBTQ youth, efforts to create a welcoming and affirming environment for them will have a positive effect on the environment for all youth.

Thank you for supporting our effort to make PUSD a safe place for all students to thrive and reach their highest potential.