Safe Schools
We at PFLAG Butler County believe that all students should feel safe at school, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic backgrounds, race, socioeconomic status, etc.
In our first year as a chapter (2010-2011), lead by the efforts of our former chapter president, Joe Tomlinson and chapter member Damon Schnur, worked closely with the organization GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network) to provide safe school training at the Butler Area School District/Butler Senior High School. We engaged in training for the staff, faculty, teachers, etc. and helped to create a club called the GSA (Gay Straight Alliance.)
In our second year (2011-2012), we worked with Ted Hoover of Persad Center's Community Safe-Zone Program and Slippery Rock University's Dr. Catherine Masssey to create a program called BC3's Campus Safe-Zone.
This program is loosely based off of similar programs that are at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and Slippery Rock University (SRU). This program is designed to improve visibility and support for LGBTQA students and employees. Each program member has a placard placed in his/hers office showcasing that they are a member. These members have undergone training specifically for LGBTQA related knowledge and issues. The emphasis is that they are trained listeners, not therapists; however, they can provide assistance, including referrals to outside organizations/programs. For more information on the Safe-Zone program or Butler County Community College, please visit the tab titled, "Friends of PFLAG Butler" and scroll to Butler County Community College's Campus Safe-Zone.
We are constantly working to improve our community for both adults and youth. If you would like to join our efforts, please email us at [email protected] or attend any one of our monthly meetings!
In our first year as a chapter (2010-2011), lead by the efforts of our former chapter president, Joe Tomlinson and chapter member Damon Schnur, worked closely with the organization GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network) to provide safe school training at the Butler Area School District/Butler Senior High School. We engaged in training for the staff, faculty, teachers, etc. and helped to create a club called the GSA (Gay Straight Alliance.)
In our second year (2011-2012), we worked with Ted Hoover of Persad Center's Community Safe-Zone Program and Slippery Rock University's Dr. Catherine Masssey to create a program called BC3's Campus Safe-Zone.
This program is loosely based off of similar programs that are at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and Slippery Rock University (SRU). This program is designed to improve visibility and support for LGBTQA students and employees. Each program member has a placard placed in his/hers office showcasing that they are a member. These members have undergone training specifically for LGBTQA related knowledge and issues. The emphasis is that they are trained listeners, not therapists; however, they can provide assistance, including referrals to outside organizations/programs. For more information on the Safe-Zone program or Butler County Community College, please visit the tab titled, "Friends of PFLAG Butler" and scroll to Butler County Community College's Campus Safe-Zone.
We are constantly working to improve our community for both adults and youth. If you would like to join our efforts, please email us at [email protected] or attend any one of our monthly meetings!