Dear Students, Teachers, and GSA Advisors,
You are a friend of GLSEN CT because you acknowledge that we need safer schools free of bullying, harassment, and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity/expression. But some of you may be wondering how you can exactly make a more direct and substantial impact on the climate of our schools. This is where new programs, such as our chapter's Jump-Start Student Leadership Program, become essential for not only developing leadership skills in youth but also inspiring community organizing aimed toward eliminating homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of prejudice.
Jump-Start is a team of student leaders (high school students under 18 years of age) that work to create safe schools for all, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. To achieve this goal, our team will organize educational programs and actions in the community to promote inclusion, safety, and respect for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and ally students.
Jump-Start team members should be knowledgeable of LGBT and safe school issues; committed to safe schools for all and being part of an inclusive community; responsible and able to follow-through on organizing tasks and commitments; interested in developing and deepening leadership, organizing and facilitation skills; and collaborative and enjoy working with others.
Our recruitment process ends October 31st. After team members are selected in early November, they will be trained in topics such as Anti-Oppression, LGBT 101, Organizing, and Facilitation. Between January and May of 2011, we will start our organizational and programmatic work, culminating in a Student Leadership Summit facilitated by students across the state.
Please fill out our application by October 31st. You can also email me or our fabulous Student Coordinator Layne Gianakos to have a copy sent to you via e-mail.
Please e-mail either of us if you have any questions about the application or Jump-Start Program. If you are a teacher or advisor, please encourage your students to apply and be part of this wonderful program. If you are a student, please take part in this vital national safe schools movement that is mainly being spearheaded by thoughtful and committed youth in your school and community.
Youth are such an integral part of the safe schools movement, and I can't imagine a world without their dedication and loyalty to educating and enriching their schools and communities. I know we have many fantastic student leaders in Connecticut; please don't hesitate to participate in this fantastic opportunity to learn from and connect with other proactive students across the state.
Apply to Jump-Start today, and please spread the word within your school and community! Thank you for your commitment to safe schools for ALL.
Peace, love, and empathy,
Alberto Cifuentes, Jr.
GLSEN CT Jump-Start Adult Coordinator |
