California educators celebrate the signing of Assembly Bill (AB) 1955, Support Academic Futures and Educators for Today’s Youth Act (SAFETY Act), by Governor Newsom. This landmark legislation makes California the first state to prohibit forced outing policies in school districts, county offices of education, charter schools, and the state special schools, and a member of the governing board or body of those education entities, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment for LGBTQIA+ students. The Act, introduced by Assemblymember Chris Ward and supported by California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, the California Legislative LGBTQ+ Caucus and various legislators, protects students' privacy by preventing school employees from disclosing any information related to a student's sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression to any other person without their consent.

“Every student deserves to feel safe, respected and valued in our schools. The SAFETY Act represents a crucial step towards protecting our LGBTQIA+ students and staff, affirming their right to privacy and dignity, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future for all our children,” said Dr. Debra Duardo, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools. 

The SAFETY Act comes in response to concerns raised by LGBTQIA+ students and families over policies that could jeopardize student safety. It provides resources for families to discuss gender and identity on their own terms and ensures school staff are not retaliated against for refusing to forcibly out students. This law empowers educators to focus on fostering supportive learning environments rather than policing students' identities.

The signing of the SAFETY Act marks a pivotal moment for advancing inclusivity and safety in our schools.  I am inspired by California’s commitment to supporting LGBTQIA+ students, allies, and families within our schools and communities,” said Tonya Moore, LACOE’s Coordinator III of Physical Education and Comprehensive Health and leader of PRISM. 

The signing of the SAFETY Act is seen as a significant advancement for the rights and safety of LGBTQIA+ students in California but the work for safe and inclusive schools continues. California Department of Education (CDE) has partnered with the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) and an Advisory Committee to develop online LGBTQ+ cultural competency training courses that will support California certificated staff who serve 7-12 grade students.

This partnership was a result of a bill cosponsored by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond and the Equality California Institute in 2019 that aimed to equip teachers with knowledge about school and community resources available to support LGBTQIA+ students. These courses, known as PRISM (Providing Relevant, Inclusive Support That Matters for LGBTQ+ Students), aim to foster acceptance and promote a positive school environment for LGBTQIA+ students. 

Read CDE press release here: https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr24/yr24rel37.asp