Student Wellness Series

LGBTQ Student Challenges

Webinars on the Mental Health Issues Impacting Today’s Students

Schools have a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of every student.

Students who identify as LGBTQ are being disproportionately affected by the youth mental health crisis. The impact on children is profound: higher rates of suicide, substance abuse, anxiety, and depression. The latest data from the Trevor Project shows that an alarming 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. What can educators do?

It’s more critical than ever to ensure these students receive the resources and support they need to feel accepted. Join Robin McHaelen, Jeff McCoy, and Paget Hetherington in this webinar as they explore best practices for supporting your LGBTQ students. You’ll leave with actionable strategies to build a welcoming, affirming community in your district.

Meet the Presenters

Robin P. McHaelen, MSW

Robin is the Founder and former Executive Director of True Colors, Inc. She helped create one of the first LGBTQ+ mentoring programs in the country in 2005. She has co-authored two books, a book chapter, and several articles on LGBTQ+ youth and is a nationally recognized thought leader. She is the recipient of numerous awards and is an adjunct professor at Central Connecticut State University, teaching intergroup communications and human sexuality. In 2021, Robin was appointed by Connecticut’s Governor Lamont to the newly formed Hate Crimes Commission.

Jeff McCoy, MS Ed

Mr. McCoy started his career with Greenville County Schools in 2000 and is currently the Associate Superintendent for Academics. He has also served in the roles of International Baccalaureate Coordinator, Instructional Technology Specialist, Distance Learning Coordinator, Director of Instructional Technology, and Director of Academic Innovation and Technology. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and his Master’s Degree in Education Technology with a focus on leadership.

Paget Hetherington

Paget Hetherington has been helping children learn since the beginning of her 25-plus-year career. After getting her start selling children’s books to publishers, she went on to lead sales and marketing efforts for global publishing and education technology companies. As the Vice President of Marketing at Gaggle, Paget’s focus is the safety and well-being of students.

What Is Gaggle?

Content Analysis

Machine learning technology flags concerning content in students’ school-issued accounts for review and blocks potentially harmful content

Expert Review

Gaggle helps K-12 districts see the early warning signs so they can take action to protect students from harming themselves or others—before it’s too late

Rapid Response

In severe situations concerning student mental health or safety, district-appointed contacts are immediately notified by phone, even after standard business hours