IPN to Release 2009 School Climate Survey

MEDIA ADVISORY
For Immediate Release
Contact: Ryan Roemerman, Executive Director, Iowa Pride Network
515-243-1110

First Study Since Passage of the 2007 Iowa Safe Schools Law
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WHAT:
Iowa Pride Network will announce findings from the 2009 Iowa School Climate Survey (ISCS) on Wednesday, Nov. 11. This biennial survey is the only survey that measures the levels of racism, homophobia and sexism in Iowa schools. The 2009 survey is the first since the legislature passed the 2007 Iowa Safe Schools Law. The law requires schools to have anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies that protect all students including those that identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students.

The survey details how the majority of Iowa's LGBT students continue to feel unsafe in their schools and face verbal and physical harassment or assault daily. The survey also reveals positive signs of improvement in key areas, such as an increase in teachers intervening in bullying situations. New data surrounding students' thoughts on suicide will also be provided. Iowa Pride Network will share its recommendations on how to support schools to ensure they meet and exceed the standards set by the Iowa Safe Schools Law. Students from various high schools will also be in attendance to share personal experiences.

WHEN:
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
10:00 a.m.

WHERE:
Iowa State Capitol, Room 116
Des Moines, Iowa 50319

CONTACT:
Ryan Roemerman, Executive Director
515-243-1110 (office) 515-371-8355 (mobile)

BACKGROUND:
The ISCS is the only biennial state-wide survey to document the safety of LGBT students in Iowa's schools. This is the third survey Iowa Pride Network has released since 2005.

About Iowa Pride Network
Iowa Pride Network empowers students to fight homophobia and transphobia in high schools and colleges by supporting gay-straight alliance (GSA) clubs and providing leadership opportunities and organizing projects centered on social justice. For more information call Iowa Pride Network at 515-243-1110 or by visiting Iowa Pride Network.