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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: info@gsafewi.org
New GSAFE Report Reveals Gaps in LGBTQ+ Student Protections Across Wisconsin School Districts
A new research brief from researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and GSAFE offers a comprehensive look at how Wisconsin’s school districts approach LGBTQ+ student inclusion in their school board policies. Authored by a team of scholars led by Dr. Mollie McQuillan, Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, and developed in collaboration with GSAFE, the report analyzes over 6,000 policy documents to assess the inclusivity and clarity of district-level policies.
It reveals significant variation in how districts protect LGBTQ+ students, particularly transgender youth. While nearly 99% of districts include anti-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation, only 80% extend those protections to gender identity—leaving transgender students vulnerable to inconsistent support. The brief highlights how vague or restrictive language in controversial issues and parental rights policies contribute to the disproportionate exclusion of LGBTQ+ students and students of color.
Key findings include:
- 89% of districts allow parents to opt students out of third-party surveys.
- 81% allow opt-outs from curriculum reviews.
- Only 14% allow opt-outs from sexual health education, and 9% from state assessments.
- 72% of districts require teachers to present “all sides” of controversial issues, and another 72% mandate that such discussions be student-initiated—potentially limiting classroom discourse on gender and sexuality.
- Only 10% of districts have publicly accessible administrative guidance for transgender students.
“Educational leaders, policymakers, and advocates must work toward clearer, more consistent policies that protect LGBTQ+ students and ensure their well-being in schools,” said Dr. McQuillan. “The lack of clear guidance leaves educators unsure of how to support transgender students consistently,” said Dr. McQuillan. “This case-by-case approach can result in unequal protections and missed opportunities to foster affirming school climates.”
Brian Juchems, Senior Director of Education and Policy at GSAFE, added, “The data shows both progress in LGBTQ+ protections and significant gaps that leave vulnerable students without critical safeguards they need to thrive.”
Note: These policy briefs are educational resources and do not constitute legal advice. School districts should consult with their legal counsel for specific policy questions.
About GSAFE: GSAFE is a statewide organization working to create safer and more inclusive schools for LGBTQ+ students, educators, and families in Wisconsin. Through policy advocacy, educational resources, and community organizing, GSAFE supports efforts to ensure all students can learn and thrive in environments free from discrimination and harassment.
An electronic version of this news release can be found under the GSAFE news tab: https://gsafewi.org/news/.
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