Schools and the Overrepresentation of LGBTQ/Gnc Youth in the Juvenile Justice System

Studies have found that LGBTQ and gender nonconforming (GNC) youth are overrepresented in the school-to-prison pipeline, defined as automatic and punitive disciplinary practices for minor infractions that often lead to youth spending time outside of school and entering the juvenile justice system. More information is needed to determine how LGBTQ/GNC individuals who were incarcerated as juveniles describe their experiences in traditional high schools and what suggestions these individuals have for improving the education system. This research project focused on the personal testimonies of participants who identify as LGBTQ/GNC and were incarcerated in their youth. Overall, this study found that rigid power dynamics between students and staff, the involvement of law enforcement in school disciplinary issues, and a lack of responsiveness from schools in relation to LGBTQ/GNC students' identities and concerns play a role in implicating LGBTQ/GNC youth in the juvenile justice system. It is important to identify these specific factors within schools in order to create tangible changes that can engender safer and more welcoming environments for LGBTQ/GNC students.Keywords: LGBTQ, gender nonconforming (GNC), juvenile justice system, school-to-prison pipeline.