Public board affirms support for GSAs, student privacy

Trustees also vote to end ‘conversion therapy’ referrals

Edmonton public school trustees voted Tuesday to back the education minister’s impending legislation to assure privacy for students who join gay-straight alliances (GSAs).

The motion, introduced by board vice-chairwoman Bridget Stirling and approved 8-1, also pledges Edmonton Public Schools staff will not refer LGBTQ students to so-called “conversion therapy” that aims to change their gender identity or sexual orientation. The board also agreed to write welcome letters of support to the approximately 60 GSAs in Edmonton public schools.

“What this motion does is let our students know we have their back,” Stirling said. “We’re not going to do anything without their consent.”

Although the motion changes no policies or procedures in Edmonton public schools, the moves could help protect students across the province, Stirling said. Research shows it is dangerous for LGBTQ people to be “outed” before they are ready, she said.

The board rejected amendments proposed by trustee Sherry Adams to “affirm the significance of the parental role,” and to remind Education Minister David Eggen about provincial guidelines that encourage LGBTQ students to talk to their parents when they’re ready.

Some trustees said the amendment changed the intent of Stirling’s motion, or muddied the message.

Board newcomer Trisha Estabrooks said voters she spoke to during the civic election campaign wanted clarity on the issue.

“We need to continue to lead by example and show that example to other boards across our province,” Estabrooks said.

Board chairwoman Michelle Draper said she’s confident schools already encourage parents to be involved.

“We’re not keeping the parent at bay,” she said.

Students should feel supported to have a safe space to talk, eat pizza, plan bake sales and launch poster campaigns, she said, referring to typical GSA activities.

Stirling first introduced her motion in September, and unsuccessfully attempted to have the board discuss it before the civic election, saying the matter was urgent.

Some parents have lobbied school boards and provincial politicians to stop schools from “keeping secrets” from parents, saying they have a right to know when their child joins a GSA.

A Tuesday report from school district administrators said provincial law prevents schools from disclosing any information about students that would be an “unreasonable invasion” of their privacy.

In September, Education Minister David Eggen said he would introduce legislation this fall to make it illegal for school staff to “out” an LGBTQ student.