Transgender and non-binary students face unique challenges in educational settings, but new research highlights how supportive environments can make a profound difference in their academic success and A joint report from GLISTEN and The Trevor Project released on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 underscores the critical role of affirming school climates in fostering a sense of belonging and improving educational outcomes for these students.
The study, which surveyed over 3,700 transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse young people aged 13 to 24, along with nearly 2,000 trans middle and high school students reveals that students who experience affirmation at school report higher grades, greater engagement, and a stronger sense of belonging. These findings emphasize the importance of creating inclusive educational environments that actively support LGBTQ+ students.
Key factors in creating supportive school environments
The research identifies several key factors that contribute to positive school experiences for transgender students. Simple yet impactful actions, such as asking students about their preferred names and pronouns and consistently using them, can significantly enhance a student’s sense of belonging. Additionally, incorporating LGBTQ+ topics into the curriculum, supporting LGBTQ+ student groups, and implementing inclusive policies that allow students to participate fully in school life are crucial.
Students also benefit from connecting with other LGBTQ+ peers, seeing positive representations of LGBTQ+ individuals in their classrooms, and attending schools with inclusive policies. These policies include allowing students to use facilities and participate in sports teams that align with their gender identities. The study found that more than half of the transgender and non-binary students surveyed reported experiencing at least one negative event at school, highlighting the urgent need for more supportive and inclusive environments.
The impact of discriminatory policies and negative experiences
Despite the progress, the study reveals that over half of the students surveyed reported that their schools had implemented at least one policy or practice they considered discriminatory toward LGBTQ+ students. Common discriminatory practices included restrictions on using bathrooms or locker rooms that align with a student’s gender identity, being prohibited from using chosen names and pronouns, and facing disciplinary actions for expressing their gender identity.
These negative experiences have significant consequences. Around 60% of the students reported experiencing at least one negative event at school, such as verbal harassment related to their LGBTQ+ identity or restrictions on how they could dress. A quarter of the students reported missing 16 or more days of school in the previous year due to these challenges, and 9% said they were treated so badly that they left their school altogether.
The role of supportive educators and inclusive policies
The research underscores the importance of supportive educators in mitigating the harm faced by transgender students. Shweta Moorthy, GLISTEN’s director of research and best practices, emphasizes that students are calling for educators to move beyond what she describes as negative neutrality. Simply avoiding bullying or discrimination is not enough; students want teachers to actively demonstrate that they are welcome, valued, and supported.
Derrick Matthews, research director at The Trevor Project, highlights that school environments play a powerful role in determining whether transgender and non-binary students thrive or struggle. The study found that students with more supportive educators, positive depictions of LGBTQ+ people in their classes, and greater connection to other LGBTQ+ students had higher estimated GPAs and a stronger sense of belonging.
Building on these findings, the report provides actionable recommendations for schools to create more inclusive environments. These include implementing affirming policies, providing training for educators on LGBTQ+ issues, and fostering a culture of acceptance and support. By taking these steps, schools can help transgender students feel valued and empowered, ultimately leading to better academic and emotional outcomes.
