Safe Schools South Florida (SSSF) is a unique organization committed to creating safer learning environments for students of all backgrounds, with a special emphasis on the LGBTQ+ community. As the sole body in South Florida made up of education professionals, we dedicate our work to educate and train fellow educators, youth service providers, parents, guardians, and communities. We strive to foster atmospheres in schools and communities where students can flourish without fear.

Founded in 1991 as the ‘South Florida Gay & Lesbian Educators Group,’ SSSF has a 30-year history of advocating for the rights, safety, and education of LGBTQ+ students and their educators. We’ve spearheaded student-centered events such as the GSA Leadership Conference, Diversity Day, and the GSA Empowerment Conference, empowering tens of thousands of students throughout South Florida.

Our dedication extends beyond the classroom, training educators and staff who have directly impacted the lives of an estimated 3 million students. This transformative work has been recognized nationally by the American Federation of Teachers and state-wide by the Florida Governor’s Commission on Best Practices for Youth Suicide Prevention.

In 2022, we bravely confronted the proposed “Don’t Say Gay” law, organizing rallies, lobbying legislators, and more. Despite initial setbacks, our resolve remains unshaken, with our students ready to continue advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.

Our programs and initiatives are wide-ranging and impactful. These include:

• Policy Advocacy: We collaborate with schools, districts, and government agencies to advocate for supportive policies.
• Safe Schools Training Series: Our core training includes the latest insights on cultivating safer learning spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and their allies.
• Individual School Workshops: We work closely with school administration and teachers to customize programs fitting individual schools’ needs.
• Youth Empowerment: Our Youth Leadership Summit and GSA Empowerment Day activities empower LGBTQ+ youth and allies by fostering self-perception, leadership, and advocacy skills.
• Youth Speaker Training: Youth speakers bring our Safe Schools Training Series to life, providing a personal perspective on the challenges LGBTQ+ youth face.
• Youth Scholarships: The Robert E. Loupo, Jr. “Legacy of Change” Scholarship supports graduating seniors dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ rights.
• SpeakOUT Bureau: Our volunteer speakers bureau comprises successful professionals with personal connections to LGBTQ+ issues, sharing their stories and experiences.