8th Annual Trans Education Summit

Facilitated by Iowa Safe Schools' Director of Youth Engagement, this roundtable discussion offers students a safe and supportive space to connect and share their experiences at their schools and in their communities. Whether it's navigating school policies, finding supportive peers and staff, or addressing challenges related to identity and inclusion, this session is designed for students to talk openly with each other about what they’re going through.

Participants will have the opportunity to discuss their successes, challenges, and ideas for creating more inclusive and affirming environments in their schools. This roundtable is all about student voices—come share your story and learn from others in a space dedicated to uplifting and empowering Iowa’s LGBTQ youth.

This training focuses on issues related specifically to the Trans and Nonbinary community and is an excellent follow-up training to an LGBTQ 101 session, or it can stand alone. This session covers Trans and Nonbinary terminology, information about discrimination and disparities faced by the Trans and Nonbinary community, and best practices for working with Trans and Nonbinary individuals in any environment.

This session, led by an expert from EyesOpenIowa, will dive into the importance of providing LGBTQ-inclusive sex education in Iowa’s schools. Participants will learn key strategies for creating safe, affirming, and comprehensive sex-ed curricula that ensure all students—regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation—feel seen and supported.

The session will also address the impact of SF 496, providing clarification on new guidelines and restrictions for sex education in Iowa. Educators will leave with practical tools to implement inclusive teaching and a deeper understanding of what it means to create a curriculum that supports LGBTQ students. This workshop is ideal for educators looking to ensure their teaching is both inclusive and compliant with evolving state policies.

This panel, featuring mental health professionals with experience supporting transgender individuals, will explore the profound mental health impacts of anti-transgender legislation on the trans community. As legislative attacks on trans rights increase, so do the emotional and psychological burdens placed on trans youth and adults alike.

Panelists will discuss the specific challenges that anti-trans laws create, including increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. They will also share strategies for mental health professionals, educators, and community members to support trans individuals during these difficult times. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the mental health struggles facing the transgender community and actionable steps to foster resilience and provide meaningful support.

In the wake of SF 496, many school counselors are seeking guidance on how to best support LGBTQ students while navigating new restrictions and maintaining a confidential environment. Led by representatives from the executive team of the Iowa School Counselor Association, this workshop will provide concrete strategies for school counselors to ensure LGBTQ students feel safe and affirmed in counseling spaces.

The session will cover approaches to supporting students, clarify what questions counselors should be asking their building or district leaders, and offer insight on how to balance the needs of students with school policy requirements. Attendees will leave with actionable tools and resources to navigate these challenges while continuing to advocate for the well-being of LGBTQ youth.

Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) play a crucial role in fostering safe and supportive environments for LGBTQ+ students in schools. This session will explore what GSAs are, why they are vital for creating inclusive school cultures, and the profound impact they have on both LGBTQ+ and allied students. Participants will learn about the benefits of connecting with the Iowa Safe Schools GSA Network, which offers resources, support, and a community of like-minded advocates across the state.

In this session, attendees will also gain practical guidance on how to establish a GSA in their school, as well as strategies for sustaining and growing these student-led groups over time. Whether you're an educator, student, or community member, this session will equip you with the tools and knowledge to champion GSAs and ensure that every student has access to a safe and affirming school environment.

A deep dive into the current legislative landscape in Iowa and its impact on transgender youth, including strategies for advocacy and resistance.