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The ability to provide services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning (LGBTQ+) youth begins with an understanding of the nature of gender and sexual orientation, correct terminology, basic knowledge of the “typical” experiences of the population, and an awareness of the increased risk factors experienced by these youth. In this workshop, participants will have an opportunity to explore this important content and identify strategies for providing welcoming and affirming services appropriate for LGBTQ+ youth. The facilitator will share an overview of the theory, current issues, and research-based strategies important when working with LGBTQ+ populations. Participants will then begin to identify practices that support effective service design and delivery and will lead to the most inclusive and impactful practices. Participants also strategize ways to incorporate these practices into their services and settings.

Objectives of this course:

• Examine the key theories and terminology around gender identity/expression and sexual orientation.
• Define the stages of “coming out,” i.e. self-awareness and identity disclosure.
• Identify increased risk factors for LGBTQ+ youth.
• Strategize effective ways to work with and support LGBTQ+ youth.
• Identify resources for LGBTQ+ youth.
• Develop a personal plan of action for positively addressing the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Visit ETR's Training & TA Form to submit your request and receive cost information.

Virtual Professional Development is a simulated classroom where teachers can practice teaching student avatars using short scenarios and support from an instructional coach, so they can quickly learn and master the skills they most need to be effective. With upper elementary, middle and high school classrooms, Virtual PD has scenarios for teachers of all grade levels across a wide range of topics aligned with the Professional Learning Standards for Sex Education (PLSSE). You can watch the video here (link is external) to learn more about Virtual PD.

Using the Virtual Professional Development simulated classroom, the educator will practice Conducting Effective Condom Demonstrations with the student avatars. In this VPD scenario, the educator will, as part of one of the final lessons in the sexual health unit, do a condom demonstration for students, so they can see all of the steps involved with using an external (male) condom correctly. They have just sorted all of the steps for using condoms correctly at their seats and now the participant will review provided steps with them while doing the demonstration. Educators can do an internal (female) condom demonstration instead if they prefer.