About the National Student Council
The National Student Council (NSC) is a dynamic, virtual, youth leadership program for high school students, proudly sponsored by GLSEN, a leading organization advocating for LGBTQIA2S+ rights and inclusivity in schools.
GLSEN strives to ensure that every member of every school community is valued and respected, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or expression. We believe that such an atmosphere fosters a positive sense of self, which is the foundation of educational achievement and personal growth. Recognizing that homophobia and transphobia undermine a healthy school climate, GLSEN works to educate teachers, students, and the public about the damaging effects of these forces and how we can create inclusive school environments for all. GLSEN believes in centering and uplifting student-led movements, which have powered initiatives like the Day of Silence, Rainbow Writes, NSC, and more.
The National Student Council aims to empower LGBTQIA2S+ youth to become effective leaders and advocates while fostering a sense of community and mutual support among council members and their peers. Through our work, we hope to drive positive change in schools and communities and support LGBTQIA2S+ students nationwide.
The NSC is a year-long program for LGBTQIA2S+ youth leaders from across the country who are dedicated to GLSEN’s mission of creating safer schools for LGBTQIA2S+youth. These students serve at the forefront of GLSEN’s youth activism efforts, meeting at least twice a month to discuss GLSEN initiatives, share experiences, and work on content for the Youth Membership Publication. The NSC provides a platform for LGBTQIA2S+ youth to cultivate their leadership potential, amplify their voices, and actively contribute to creating more inclusive and equitable environments for all students.
2024 - 2025 NSC Program Description
The 2024-2025 National Student Council (NSC) will consist of dedicated members, divided into four focused cohorts: Policy, Inclusive Athletics, Arts as Activism, and GSAs. Each cohort will have 3-6 NSC members and one Team Lead, a student with a proven track record with GLSEN.
The NSC will meet twice a month to participate in workshops led by GLSEN staff and to create content for a seasonal digital publication. This publication is dedicated to empowering LGBTQIA2S+ high school students and youth activists by providing a platform for their stories, opinions, news, and creative expressions.
As a student-led publication, the magazine features content written and curated by current NSC students and LGBTQIA2S+ youth activists from across the country. Each issue highlights the voices and experiences of queer students, offering a unique perspective on the issues that matter most to them. From policy discussions and personal narratives to creative writing and community news, this magazine is a space for you to share your stories, connect with peers, and advocate for change.
Cohort Descriptions
Each cohort is designed to amplify your voice and impact, providing a platform to shine while being supported by comprehensive training and leadership development. Through participation, you’ll not only contribute to a vital publication but also gain invaluable skills that transcend the program, preparing you for future leadership and advocacy roles.
Led by a skilled student leader, every cohort will engage in specialized workshops covering Media Training, Policy and Advocacy, Op-Ed writing, public speaking, and more. Additionally, individual members will have the opportunity to attend GLSEN or partner related events. and pitch your op-eds and ideas to major publications like The Advocate or Teen Vogue.
In the GSA and Inclusive Clubs Cohort, you’ll team up with fellow GSA leaders from across the nation to fortify and support GSAs and other Inclusive Clubs. Under the guidance of a dedicated student leader, your team will create pivotal resources aimed at starting, sustaining, and developing GSAs. You'll be instrumental in producing content for our seasonal youth membership publication, focusing on the power of inclusive clubs in schools.
Inclusive Athletics Cohort members promote diversity and inclusion within school sports and athletics programs. This group works to produce guidelines and profiles that encourage supportive environments for LGBTQIA2S+ athletes. Each member contributes to our seasonal magazine, bringing awareness to the importance of inclusivity in athletics.
The Arts as Activism Cohort is perfect for those who believe in the transformative power of art to enact social change. As a member, in addition to your own creative contributions, you'll manage and showcase creative works from LGBTQIA2S+ youth, including writing and visual arts, in our seasonal publication.
The LGBTQIA2S+ Policy Cohort provides crucial support in strengthening youth advocacy efforts in the LGBTQIA2S+ community. This group delves deep into the complexities of state and local policy, Anti-LGBTQIA2S+ legislation, and student rights, to empower students to enact change and advocate for their communities. Alongside a knowledgeable student leader, you will develop resources that break down current policies affecting LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and create guides that empower youth.
NSC Member Responsibilities
NSC members can expect to spend 10 - 15 hours a month on the following:
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Participate in at least two mandatory Zoom meetings a month for the duration of the program (Sep - April 2025)
- Check email weekly and Discord 3-4 times a week.
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Develop and execute resources addressing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA2S+ students.
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Contribute to each seasonal magazine issue through op-eds, articles, features, interviews, creative writing, or visual art.
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Serve as ambassadors of youth perspectives and participate in various events, including fundraising initiatives, GLSEN's social media presence, and corporate partnerships.
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Participate and amplify GLSEN Days of Action and related events.
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Some travel may be required for opportunities like D.C. Lobby Day, Respect NYC, and more. Expenses for these trips will be covered by GLSEN.
Benefits & Compensation
- Gain professional development through mentorship, workshops, and experience.
- Receive a $200 monthly stipend, distributed at the end of each month via direct deposit or a mailed check.
- Connect and organize with student leaders, community organizers, and influencers from across the country.
Application Process
All high school students in the United States who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to apply by submitting an application below!
The application includes four parts:
- Short answer questions on biographical information and scheduling
- Short answer questions on relevant experiences and involvement with the LGBTQIA2S+ community
- Personal statement displaying a passion for one of the following areas: LGBTQIA2S+Policy, Inclusive Athletics, Arts as Activism, or GSAs.
- (optional) Contact information for one adult reference and one peer reference.
GLSEN values leadership experience, commitment to LGBTQIA2S+ advocacy, and a passion for creating inclusive school environments. Student-athletes, GSA leaders, BIPOC, and students directly affected by current LGBTQIA2S+ policies and legislation are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application deadline EXTENDED TO September 8, 2024, 11:59pm.
Visit https://www.glsen.org/nsc for more information or email Students@glsen.org with questions or comments.