HRC Foundation’s Welcoming Schools is the most comprehensive bias-based bullying prevention program in the nation to provide LGBTQ and gender inclusive professional development training, lesson plans, booklists and resources specifically designed for Pre K - 8 educators and youth-serving professionals. Our program uses an intersectional, anti-racist lens dedicated to actionable policies and practices. We uplift school communities with critical tools to embrace family diversity, create LGBTQ and gender inclusive schools, prevent bias-based bullying, and support transgender and non-binary students.
Hear directly from kids about what they need to feel welcomed when they come back to school this year. Please watch and share our newest video!
Watch Now!Welcoming Schools is now offering engaging virtual trainings as well as on-site professional development. Virtual trainings feature synchronous interactive learning and asynchronous self-directed learning. To learn more or book your training, contact us now!
Ready-to-use lesson plans, books recommendations and ways to create a more welcoming school community.
Check out our curated booklist by authors of color for Pre-K to 8 students to spark discussion on race and racism. Discover new lesson prompts for the books that are added on the last Wednesday of every month!
Introducing our first in a year long series of virtual professional development opportunities for creating LGBTQ inclusive classrooms: Embracing All Families
What can you say when a student asks you, “What does ‘gay’ mean?” or “Why does she look like a boy?” Find ways to interrupt gender and LGBTQ put-downs.
Start the year off with great resources for developing gender & LGBTQ inclusive schools. When students feel safe, they can thrive!
Show all students they are included with “Be Who You Are” bookmarks and posters. Support safe schools where all students can thrive with a Welcoming Schools baseball tee.
We would like to thank our generous sponsors, without whom our work would not be possible.
Welcoming Schools