Transgender and nonbinary students thrive when teachers affirm their identities, leading to better grades and stronger connections at school, according to a recent study by GLISTEN and the Trevor Project.
- Teacher affirmation boosts trans students’ safety and grades
- Discriminatory policies still affect many LGBTQ+ youth
- Students seek more proactive support from educators
What happened
Two national LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, GLISTEN and the Trevor Project, released a report examining the experiences of transgender and nonbinary students in schools. Drawing from surveys of thousands of students aged 13 to 24, the research highlights the positive impact of teacher support on students' academic engagement and feelings of safety.
The surveys revealed that when schools implement affirming practices and inclusive policies — such as recognizing students' chosen names and pronouns, supporting LGBTQ+ clubs, and maintaining nondiscriminatory sports and facility access — trans students report higher grades and a stronger sense of belonging. However, many students still face harassment and exclusion, with a significant number experiencing verbal harassment or restrictions on gender expression.
Why it feels good
Affirmation from teachers helps trans students feel accepted and safer, which translates into better focus and participation in class. The simple yet powerful act of acknowledging a student's authentic identity fosters an environment where students can thrive academically and socially.
Students also value inclusive curricula and positive LGBTQ+ representation, which contribute to their sense of identity and community. Feeling seen and supported empowers students to attend school regularly and engage fully, counteracting the negative effects of discrimination that still persist in many schools.
What to enjoy or watch next
As research like this gains visibility, educators and policymakers are encouraged to deepen their commitment to proactive and affirming actions for LGBTQ+ students. Supporting student-led groups and adopting inclusive policies can be immediate steps with meaningful impact.
Looking ahead, we can watch for how schools nationwide respond to these findings amid varied political landscapes and shifting laws affecting trans youth. Continued advocacy and education will be key to building safer, more welcoming schools where every student can succeed.