During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the mental health and well-being of LGBTQI+ students, who are reportedly among the highest risk groups in educational settings. A speaker highlighted their work not only in Norwalk but also across Fayetteville County and beyond, indicating that these issues are prevalent in various communities.

The discussion emphasized the importance of understanding the experiences and feelings of LGBTQI+ students, noting that not all approaches taken by educators and administrators have involved directly engaging with the students themselves. This lack of communication may hinder effective support and intervention strategies.

The meeting underscored the need for more inclusive practices and proactive measures to address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQI+ youth, calling for a shift in tactics to prioritize student voices in discussions about their mental health and overall school experience.