Training Educators

Schools have always had a responsibility to ensure every student has a safe place to learn. For LGBTQ+ students, too many educators are still navigating that work without the training, tools, or confidence to do it consistently - it calls for more preparation and more intention than ever, especially right now. GSAFE gives your staff what they need to handle whatever conversation or situation comes their way — and to step into those moments with intention.

GSAFE Professional Development

GSAFE provides specialized, tailored professional development to K–12 public school districts across Wisconsin. Our trainings are grounded in more than two decades of direct experience supporting educators, administrators, and school communities in building affirming, safe environments for transgender, queer, and two-spirit youth.

Our lead trainer brings over 20 years of specialized expertise in LGBTQ+ inclusive education. Every session is customized to the specific needs, context, and goals of your district - not a one-size-fits-all curriculum. We meet your staff where they are.

What to Expect

GSAFE trainings are interactive and practical by design. Your staff won't sit through a lecture - they'll engage in facilitated discussion, work through real scenarios via role play and group problem solving and leave with concrete tools, resources, and language they can use right away. Sessions are led by a facilitator who knows how to hold space for a range of perspectives and comfort levels, so all staff feel included in the conversation - even those who come in with reservations.

After a session with GSAFE, your staff will:

• Feel more confident navigating challenging questions from students and families
• Have a better understanding of the current legal landscape and what it means for your district
• Leave with ready-to-use resources and language they can put into practice immediately
• Be better equipped to create a school environment where all students feel safe and seen

Our Most Requested Trainings

Creating Affirming Schools for LGBTQ+ Youth A foundational session for school staff at all levels. Explores what it means to build a school culture where LGBTQ+ students feel safe, visible, and supported — and gives staff practical tools to make that happen in their everyday work.

Supporting and Including Transgender and Gender Expansive Students Designed to help educators and administrators understand and affirm the experiences of transgender and gender expansive students. Covers language, policy considerations, and how to respond thoughtfully to student and family questions.

What Administrators Need to Know Tailored specifically for building and district leaders. Covers the legal landscape, administrative responsibilities, how to support staff, and how to communicate with families — including those who may have concerns.

Creating and Sustaining GSAs For staff advisors and administrators supporting Gay-Straight Alliances or similar student groups. Covers how to launch, grow, and sustain a GSA that serves all students and navigates institutional challenges.

GSAFE also has a Certified Welcoming Schools Facilitator on staff. Welcoming Schools is a comprehensive approach to creating respectful and supportive elementary schools, with resources and professional development designed specifically for younger grades.

What Educators Are Saying

"This is easily one of the best presentations I've been a part of for PD. It was very educational and enlightening. Presenters were professional but also knew how to engage the crowd in an understanding way." — Wisconsin educator

"I was most impressed by the session leader's ability to facilitate discussion when it was clear that some strong opposing mindsets were present in the room." — Wisconsin educator

"It took the fear out of having the conversation! It gave me the affirmation that trying is better than perfect." — Wisconsin educator

"Such a positive, helpful, and empowering training. The facilitator's poise and compassionate demeanor created a safe space for staff to explore these critically important subjects. Absolutely a highlight of my week." — Wisconsin educator

Request a Training

Ready to bring GSAFE to your district?

Fill out the form below and we'll be in touch within a few business days to talk through your goals, timing, and the right training for your team. Not sure where to start? We're happy to help you figure that out, too.