Bridget Clement Speaks to Coal Center Intermediate Unit

 On March 21st Bridget Clement presented to more than 100 educators from Greene, Fayette and Washington Counties.  The presentation focused on LGBTQ sensitivity and provided advice and strategies for educators who support students who identify as part of this community.  Based on last year’s US Center for Disease Control’s annual high school student survey, we know for the first time, that 1.3 million, or roughly 8% of all high school students in American report being part of the LGBTQ community.  We also know that students who identify as LGBTQ experience high instances of harassment or assault based on their identity.  Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics revealed extremely high levels of attempted suicide among transgender youth.  The training CISPAC provides was developed in partnership with PFLAG Pittsburgh and is intended to help educators understand the challenges LGBTQ youth face and how they can help them feel welcome and accepted in their school community.