Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Subject: Commitment to the LGBTQ+ Community
From SOMERVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT
To:
Date Today at 10:33 AM
A message from SOMERVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOL
DISTRICT
Dear SPS Families,
In recent days, I have heard from community members who are concerned about federal policy changes related
to LGBTQ+ rights. I recognize that these changes may create uncertainty, anxiety and fear.
Please know that Somerville Public Schools remains a
safe and inclusive environment for you and your family.
As a district, we are committed to ensuring that every
student has access to a high-quality education free from discrimination, harassment, or exclusion, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. We will continue to uphold district policies, state laws, and federal protections designed to safeguard students’ rights.
As policies continue to evolve at the national level, we
will continue to review each one carefully. We will do so in a way that aligns with our core values, and do our utmost to ensure that LGBTQ+ students continue to experience safety and belonging in our schools.
SPS has long-established systems in place to ensure
LGBTQ+ students and staff experience safety and
belonging in our schools.
These systems include:
Affinity Groups for Staff: Spaces where LGBTQ+
staff can connect and receive support.
GSA (Gender & Sexuality Alliance) Clubs:
Available in four of our six K-8 schools to provide
LGBTQ+ students and allies a space to build
community.
Professional Development: Ongoing district-wide
training for educators on best practices for
supporting LGBTQ+ students and staff.
Inclusive Health Curriculum: Instruction that is
gender-neutral and addresses gender roles,
gender expression, and the importance of respect
and understanding.
Restorative Practices: School-based approaches
that foster dialogue, repair harm, and promote
that foster dialogue, repair harm, and promote
inclusivity in response to incidents of bias.
Collaboration with City Partners: To ensure
students and families have access to broader
community resources and support.
We are continuously working to strengthen these efforts so that all students, families, and staff feel welcome in our schools. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your school-based counselors, should your child need additional social or emotional support.
Above all, please know that you are not alone. Our
district is here to support every student and family, and we will continue to work together to create schools where all children feel safe, valued, and empowered to thrive.
In partnership,
Superintendent Rubén Carmona