This national study of public school principals by GLSEN and Harris Interactive, in collaboration with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), examined principals' attitudes and experiences regarding school safety, bullying and harassment . 1,580 K-12 public school principals completed the online survey between June 15 and August 3, 2007.
The findings reveal although half of principals view bullying as a serious problem at their schools, they appear to underestimate the extent of harassment that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students experience. Although principals report their schools engage in anti-bullying/harassment efforts, most do not specifically address school safety for LGBT students. Results also indicate that compared to other issues of school safety or inclusion, principals lack adequate preparation and information to ensure a safe environment for LGBT students and families.
This study provides valuable information for development of resources for principals and administrators locally, at the state level and with national education groups.