Hey Trevor, first I'd like to ask, how come when I call the line it doesn't say anything about the Trevor Project, it says something about a weird different line, and then it won't let me connect...So, idk. Second, I'd like to ask, is it weird to talk to your teacher about your sexuality?! I mean really and truthfully she is the only one who understands. She is very supportive, and I mean I guess that is what I am looking for, acceptance. My only problem is, is that I have started to form a crush on this teacher, which I know from past experience can be bad, really heart-breaking. So, is it an often thing to have a crush on your teacher?! Third, what do you do when people are saying they hate you because you tell them you like girls..and you are also a girl?! I told this teacher in hope she'd do something about it, but instead she said she could either tell the counselor or try and talk to them. She said it wouldn't be a good idea because then their parents would come storming in talking about their beliefs. And I mean I understand that, but how is a school going to let people treat other students like that?! To me, that is bullying, and what is worse is our school even has a program called peacebuilders. I guess if you're homosexual and people tease you it isn't considered bullying?! WTHeck?! Fourth, Trevor I have written on here before and you got back to me in a couple days, which meant a lot. And more importantly I could tell you took your time and effort to answer me which really, really meant a lot. I mean you don't even know me, but unlike all of the other counselors and therapists I have talked to you have showed one-hundered percent more care than they have. You keep me going, to know I have someone there who I can talk to when I need it means everything. So, thank-you so much!!!
Signed,
Jody, 13, Fredericksburg VA

Hey Jody, We are glad to hear you are having a positive experience with the Trevor Project. I am not sure what the technical issue was with the phone line. The inital message is there to inform people to contact 911 in case of a critical situation. Then, I believe, the message instructs the caller to press "2" to speak with a counselor. WHen I called this morning, I got transferred to a counselor. Perhaps, it was a momentary blip. Onto your questions...Finding and speaking with a trusted adult about your sexaulity is a great move. Everyone goes through a period of discovery regarding their sexuality. Having someone to talk to helps clarify that experience. YOu have found a supportive mentor in your teacher. That is great. Her ability to understand and accept you will help you . That is Great! Developing crushes on teachers is very common. You have found a supportive adult with whom you have confided. When someone expresses their understanding and acceptance of you,      it is natural to develop a crush. As you stated, the crush thing has not worked well for you in the past. But, you can use this experience to inform you of the kind of person you would like to date. WHat qualities does your teacher have that you find attractive. Is it the way she treats you? Is it something about her appearance? You can use these qualities to seek someone you can date in the future. Dealing with bullies is a big issue. As far as how to deal with the bullying in your school, you could start by talking with an adult at school such as a the principal, school counselor or school administrator as it is their job to make sure you and others are not being harassed or bullied by students, teachers or anyone and that you feel safe in school, so if you feel comfortable, please bring it to their attention immediately. There are a number of organizations that work specifically in schools to address homophobia and transphobia against LGBT students. One such organization is the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) which works to ensure safe schools for ALL students. On their website at www.glsen.org click on "what we do" where you can find programs which may help people in your school become more understanding and supportive of you. One program is called "A Day of Silence" which brings attention to anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying and harassment in schools. Each year, the event has grown, now with hundreds of thousands of students coming together to encourage schools and classmates to address the problem of anti-LGBT behavior. Another program is the No Name-Calling Week which is a week of educational activities aimed at ending name-calling of all kinds and providing schools with the tools and inspiration to foster a dialogue about ways to eliminate bullying in their communities. On GLSEN's website, there are also links to articles and blogs where you can learn how students at other schools are educating each other on the subject of intolerance. GLSEN also has information on how to start a GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance) which is a student club that work to improve school climate for all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. It's a place where students can come together, offer support to one another and help make your school a more accepting place. On http://www.gsanetwork.org/resources/start.html you can get information on how to start a GSA. You can call the GLSEN office in New York at 212-727-0135 as they may be able to help you or point you towards someone who can help you. Your school already has the peacebuilders. Do you think you could work with them to create an envrionment that respects everybody? Jody, this is something to consider. Keep your comfort and safety in mind. You display some very strong leadership qualities. If you feel comfortable standing up to the challenge, you could be one of the students that promotes change in your school. Being a leader can also bring a lot of scrutiny. You may experience some flack from classmates because you are taking a stand. Trevorspace, at www.trevorspace.org, is the Trevor Project's safe, online social networking site for LGBTQ young people ages 13 to 24 their friends and allies. It's a great supportive community where you can connect with others who might have had or are having the same questions that you’re having about your sexuality and how to deal with ignorance at school.