The American Counseling Association (ACA), the world’s largest nonprofit organization representing nearly 43,000 professional counselors, including professional school counselors, strongly supports the work of Assistant Deputy Secretary of Education Kevin Jennings who directs the Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools. The recent tragic beating death of Chicago student Derrion Albert, an honor student, shows the urgent need to ensure that our nation’s schools serve as the foundation for a safe, supportive, and healthy environment for all children and youth, regardless of sexual orientation.Mr. Jennings is working hard to address this issue.
Mr. Jennings has a long and distinguished career in education and civil rights. He brings a wealth of experience in addressing bullying and student discrimination, and has dedicated his professional life to improving school climate and safety. Even in the short time he has been in his new role, Secretary Jennings has shown he is, and will continue to be, an outstanding advocate for all students' well-being and achievement.
ACA worked with Mr. Jennings before his appointment to the Department of Education, during his tenure with the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), which he founded.As stated in GLSEN’s 2007 National School Climate Survey, 86.2% of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students experienced harassment at school in the past year, three-fifths (60.8%) felt unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation, and roughly one in three (32.7%) skipped school because of feeling unsafe.
“ACA firmly believes that this environment of fear can no longer be tolerated in 21st century America,” said Richard Yep, ACA Executive Director.
“At the core of ACA's mission is promoting respect for human dignity and diversity. And that same dedication is clearly evident in Kevin Jennings' exemplary record of service," said Dr. Lynn E. Linde, ACA president.
"We look forward to our continued association with Kevin Jennings as he takes on the important work to ensure that our nation’s students receive an education that is provided free of discrimination, bullying, or harassment,” said Yep.
###
The American Counseling Association (www.counseling.org) is a not-for-profit professional and educational organization that is dedicated to the growth and enhancement of the counseling profession. Founded in 1952, ACA is the world's largest association exclusively representing professional counselors working in schools, clinics, private practice, and other practice settings.
Contact: Scott Barstow
Phone: 703-823-9800 x234
E-mail: sbarstow@counseling.org