Gay Student Support Program Approved

Despite facing a projected $113 million two-year deficit, San Francisco's school board has unanimously agreed to fund a $120,000 support program for "lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning" youth issues.

The San Francisco Chronicle notes that the measure requires district staff to seek outside funding to cover the costs, although it guarantees minimum services regardless.

A district survey indicated that about 13% of middle school students and 11% of high school students in the city identified as gay. Despite the perception of San Francisco as a gay-friendly city, LGBT students were still far more likely to be intimidated or unmotivated to go to school.

Across the bay in Alameda, debate recently ensued over a decision by that city's district to provide an annual lesson on gay and lesbian issues at its schools. That measure passed with much less ease than San Francisco's unanimous decision, which provides for a much more comprehensive program.