In one GLSEN [1] (the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) study of school climate [2], elementary school students and teachers reported constant use of disparaging remarks like "retard" and "that's so gay" in their schools and classrooms. Research conducted by GLSEN continues to highlight the prevalence of biased language, name-calling and bullying in U.S. schools.

GLSEN'S No Name-Calling Week [3] is an annual week of educational activities that takes place in schools across the nation. No Name-Calling Week seeks to resolve the problem of name-calling and bullying in schools and provide students and teachers with the tools to create a more positive classroom environment. NIOS is proud to be one of over 40 national partner organizations of No Name-Calling Week, and we hope to inspire schools to create a more tolerant and accepting atmosphere for all students.

GLSEN has provided great resources for educators to get involved, check them out here [4]. Also, to see an example of a class discussion where the students encourage each other to stop using anti-gay banter, check out this NIOS Video, "What Do You Say to That’s So Gay? [5]” available on Teacher Tube + accompanying lesson plan!