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< Back to School Policy Hub Affirmed Names and Pronouns New year, new schedule, new... school policies to decode? The start of the school year is stressful enough without deciphering confusing district policy. At PRISM, we believe every student deserves to be seen as their authentic self, and it starts with navigating name and pronoun changes smoothly. We’ve put together a guide for Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach schools, with all the forms, policies, and even a ready-to-send email template – because supporting students shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle. What’s the same in all districts? According to state law, schools cannot force teachers or students to use someone’s affirmed pronouns. However, teachers still have the option to use a student’s affirmed pronouns. Parents must give permission for a student to use a different name at school (except Miami-Dade students over the age of 18). Affirmed names can be used in school systems and non-legal documents after written consent is given by a parent or legal guardian. Legal names and gender stay the same unless changed by a court order or updated birth certificate. What’s different between districts? Miami-Dade County Teachers don't need parental permission to use a student's affirmed pronouns. Sharing a student’s birth name/sex without permission could break FERPA laws. Students over 18 can request changes without parent permission. Fill out Form FM5626 for a student’s affirmed name to be used in non-legal documents. Broward County Teachers can use a student’s affirmed name and pronouns, but only if a parent or legal guardian gives written permission. Unlike other districts, there’s no explicitly stated extra FERPA protection. Even if a student is 18+, parents must still give permission. For names: Broward Emergency Contact Card (Must be completed annually) For pronouns: PreK-12 Preferred Title Title and Pronoun Request Form Palm Beach County Teachers don't need parental permission to use a student's affirmed pronouns. Sharing a student’s birth name/sex without permission could break FERPA laws. Even if a student is 18+, parents must still give permission. Fill out Palm Beach Form PBSD 2688 - Student Registration for a student’s affirmed name to be used in non-legal documents. Email Template Under state law, teachers can't ask students for their pronouns – but students can still provide them to affirming teachers. Below are template emails students can use to inform their teachers or submit name/pronoun forms. To Teachers Subject: Introducing Myself Dear [Professor/Teacher name]: My name is [preferred name], and I will be attending your [name of course] class this year. I am contacting you to let you know that my name will show up on your roster as [legal name], but I would prefer to go by [preferred name] and [your pronouns] pronouns. I identify as [your gender identity] and do not identify with my legal name. I will be putting [preferred name] on my assignments and would appreciate it if you called me by this name and used the pronouns [your pronouns] to refer to me in class. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. You can contact me at [your email address]. Thank you so much for your understanding. I am looking forward to starting your class next week. Sincerely, [Your name] To Principal/School Staff Subject: Request for Affirmed Name/Pronoun Update Hi [Principal/Counselor’s Name], Hope you’re doing well! My [child/teen/self], [Legal Name], goes by [Affirmed Name] and uses [pronouns, if applicable] in daily life. We’d love for this to be reflected in school systems where possible! I’ve attached the completed [Form Name]—let me know if anything else is needed. Also, just checking: Has it been processed? How will this update be shared (or kept private)? Are there any other steps we should take? Thanks so much for your help in making [Student’s Name]’s school experience a little more affirming! Best, [Your Name][Your Contact Info] Pro Tip: CC a guidance counselor or trusted teacher if you’re not getting a response. A little persistence goes a long way! More Information & Resources For details on Florida's law: Florida Senate F.S. 1000.071 For district-specific LGBTQ+ support guides: Miami-Dade Guidelines for Promoting Safe and Inclusive Schools Broward County Inclusive Schools Guide Palm Beach LGBTQ+ Support Guide

So, someone just came out to you as bisexual. We've provided some helpful resources to break it down! < Return to Resources So, someone just came out to you as Bisexual What does that mean, and how should you respond? We've provided some helpful resources below to break it down! So, someone just came out to you. You may be feeling a lot of things, and trust us, that's completely normal. We've put together a collection of some of our resources below to process and understand, as well as some extra ways to show your support! Sexual Orientation Basics Sexual orientation is a person's gender identity in relation to the gender to which they are attracted. PRISM Inc. How to Respond to Someone Coming Out Learn how to respectfully respond to someone coming out to you. Maxx Fenning Bisexuality Bisexuality is the attraction to more than one gender. Many sexualities are often considered subgroups of.... PRISM Inc. The Basics History The Fight for Marriage Equality For decades, the LGBTQ+ community fought for marriage equality. Here's the story of that struggle. Lex Costello Homosexuality in Ancient Europe Although "homosexuality" is a modern term, same-gender attraction has been documented since ancient times. PRISM Inc. AIDS Crisis The AIDS Crisis ravaged the LGBTQ+ community for decades, and the government did little to help. Kylie Lawrence 1 2 3 Bisexual Pride Quick View PRISM Pride Backpack: Bisexual Price $48.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Notebook: Bisexual Price $16.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Magic Mug: Bisexual Price $16.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Face Mask: Bisexual Price $19.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Shirt: Bisexual Price $36.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Sweatshirt: Bisexual Price $45.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Bomber Jacket: Bisexual Price $68.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Hoodie: Bisexual Price $59.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Leggings: Bisexual Price $37.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Plus Size Leggings: Bisexual Price $42.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Socks: Bisexual Price $16.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Fanny Pack: Bisexual Price $34.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Pillow Case: Bisexual Price $22.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Sticker: Bisexual Price $2.50

< Return to Open Positions Comedy Writer We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Comedy Writer Position Title Please select the requested option Want to apply for a different position? Click here to browse what's available. Have a question about open positions? Contact us at: careers@prismfl.org Part of our work is creating educational resources for LGBTQ+ youth and queer people of color. Comedy writers take the necessary information and compose comedic scripts for our educational video content. Candidates local to Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach are strongly preferred. Pay : $30 per script (may vary by project) Responsibilities: Research and gather information about proposed topics Convey educational topics in a comedic format for our viewers Complete tasks in a timely manner Maintain the accuracy of information provided through peer editing and continuous review of published resources Qualifications: Experience working in a collaborative creative environment Must have comedic writing skills Experience creating or participating in video content for social media (Preferred) South Florida resident (Preferred) Have an understanding of pop culture While not required, it is preferred that Writers have prior exposure to information regarding one or more of the following : Sexual health LGBTQ+ issues Racial equity Black history/culture LatinX history/culture Asian history/culture LGBTQ+ history PRISM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will consider applicants for this position without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, HIV and/or STI status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, young people, and members of other historically disenfranchised populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Next

In March 2022, Florida passed HB1557, the "Parental Rights in Education" bill, into law. Among advocates and activists, the law is referred to as "Don't Say LGBTQ" because it heinously restricts and censors queerness in schools. Don't Say LGBTQ+ Florida has signed "Don't Say LGBTQ+" into law. Here's what the law is, what it does, and how PRISM is fighting back. What is "Don't Say LGBTQ+"? The Don't Say LGBTQ+ Law , or the Parental Rights in Education Act (HB 1557), bans classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity in certain grade levels or in a specified manner. What began as a ban in K-3rd grade was then expanded to K-8 with the passage of HB 1069 last year. However, the biggest effect of the bill lies in its vague and ambiguous language- and that’s by design. Many teachers and school staff felt it was best to fully avoid the conversation than to risk accidentally violating the law. The Settlement In March of this year, a legal settlement clarified what restrictions are imposed by the Don't Say LGBTQ+ Law. Here's what that included: LGBTQ+ in the Classroom Students and teachers can now discuss LGBTQ+ issues. However, teachers cannot provide lessons or instruction on gender or sexual orientation. References to LGBTQ+ people, relationships, and families are allowed, and students can discuss LGBTQ+ issues and history in school assignments. Representation LGBTQ+ teachers are also allowed to display pictures of their same-sex spouses, and teachers can keep up safe space signage and stickers to show support (including pride flags). Books Back on Shelves This agreement clarified that books featuring LGBTQ+ characters can be accessible in school libraries. Though they cannot be studied in the classroom as part of a lesson on gender identity and sexual orientation, the books are now accessible to students. LGBTQ+ Student Organizations GSAs are protected, providing students with essential support and advocacy spaces. Additionally, participation in and support of LGBTQ+ student clubs and cultural presentations remain unaffected. Responding to supporters of the bill: It can be exhausting to fight Internet trolls on this left and right, so we've got you covered. PRISM has broken down all of the myths that have been thrown around to support this harmful piece of legislation. Don’t worry, our sources are cited. You can also catch these as one, complete video on our TikTok page . Join us in fighting back. Just because the law has passed doesn't mean there aren't ways to fight back. Keep an eye on our Upcoming Events , because we regularly plan protests and speak out against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation during school board meetings.

< Back to School Policy Hub How to Respond to Someone Coming Out What is "coming out"? “Coming Out” is the act of disclosing one’s own sexuality or gender identity to someone. Coming out is different for everyone. Some people come out as soon as they come to a realization about their sexuality or gender identity, while others come out to people slowly, one by one. Read on to find out the best way to handle someone coming out to you. How do I respond to someone coming out? Whether the person coming out is a distant acquaintance or your child, the best way to respond is with respect. We know that learning about this new facet of someone's life can be jarring, especially if you're extremely close to them. However, it's important to acknowledge this information with an open and supportive mindset. Show support While your first instinct may be a shock, understand that the person coming out to you more likely than not put forth a lot of courage to divulge their sexuality or gender identity to you. What's most important is that you welcome their honesty and fulfillment with open arms. Educate yourself, but don't rely on them to do it for you While an eagerness to learn about their experiences or feelings may be flattering, it is not this person's responsibility to give you more information than was offered. It's alright to express curiosity, but don't force them to answer questions they're not comfortable with talking about. You can find all sorts of information about gender and sexuality here . Ask how you can help LGBTQ+ youth and individuals face a whole host of problems beyond their peers. It's important to ask the person coming out to you how you can help them. What should I NOT say? "Why didn't you tell me?" While you may feel betrayed or offended that this person waited until they did to tell you, understand that each person goes about coming out differently. In fact, many people come out to those they care about most later on in life because they are worried about the reaction those people will have and how they will be perceived. No one is entitled to information on someone's gender or sexuality, so simply appreciate that they included you in their coming out journey, wherever they may be in it. "I knew it!" This may seem like a supportive statement, but this is an extremely disrespectful thing for LGBTQ+ people to hear. Many queer youths spend years hiding their sexuality or gender identity out of fear, and pointing out that you "called it" or "knew it the whole time" isn't an accomplishment to brag about. "It's just a phase." Everyone explores their sexuality at different paces and with different experiences. Because of this, sexuality and gender can be fluid and shift. However, trivializing this journey and forcing sexuality onto someone is extremely detrimental. What's most important is that you are supportive, respectful, and understanding of the situation.

Do you love design? Are you great at public speaking? Maybe your passion is educating others. Whatever it is, there's a place in PRISM for everyone. Get Involved Hi, we’re PRISM ! We’re a youth-led nonprofit that works to expand access to LGBT-inclusive education and sexual health resources for young people in South Florida. Want to help out? Scroll down to see how you can join the movement. Volunteer Form Open Positions STI Clinic Vetting Program Share Donate Task Forces

Join us as we pay homage to the people, organizations, and movements that lit the fire of queer activism and fought for the rights queer people have today. BUY YOUR TICKET A HISTORY OF RESISTANCE As queer youth face mounting attacks across the state, our movement calls for a return to scrappy, grassroots tactics. This year, we're harkening back to the era of Riot Grrrl and feminist punk to celebrate queers who took to the streets to demand change. Join us as we pay homage to the people, organizations, and movements that fought for the rights we have today. Drinks, Drag, Dinner, Awards & Auction There will be: Entertainment Dinner Interactive Exhibits Silent Auction Awards Ceremony An exclusive after party And more! SPONSORS Interested in sponsoring the PRISM Gala? Reach out to Maxx Fenning for more information (maxxfenning@prismfl.org ) Champion Tier Advocate Tier Ally Tier Media Sponsors 2025 AWARDEES Ky Walker Youth Leadership Award Laura Munoz Youth Allyship Award Sofia Hernandez Volunteer Award BUY YOUR TICKET

< Return to STI Clinic Search UHealth Adolescent Counseling & Testing Services (ACTS) Call: (305) 243-2174 Website: https://umiamihealth.org/en/treatments-and-services/pediatrics/adolescent-medicine-(pediatrics) Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 1580 NW 10th Ave #267, Miami, FL 33136, USA Hours: Today (Fri): 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sat: Closed Sun: Closed Mon: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Tues: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Wed: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Thurs: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Street Free Parking Tests Offered: Ages 13-24 years old, no insurance required, free of charge to clients

< Return to Learn Gender & Sexuality Perfect just the way you are Learn all the ins and outs of gender identity and sexuality Sexual Orientation Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here. Sexual Orientation Basics Lesbian 1 2 3 4 Gender Identity Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here. Sex Vs Gender Outdated Trans Terms 1 2 3 4 5 Coming Out Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here. Respecting LGBTQ+ Boundaries The Importance of Being Out & Proud 1 2 3

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BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) Advocates work within various sectors of PRISM to ensure that the services and community that we create are meant for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, or nationality. < Return to Task Forces BIPOC Advocates For Every Color, For Everyone Read on to learn how our BIPOC Advocates make sure the LGBT community is heard from every corner About Members Join What do BIPOC Advocates do? The BIPOC Advocates Task Force works within various sectors of PRISM to ensure that the services and community that we create are meant for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, or nationality. Whether that be within our Content Creation Task Force advising on culturally competent phrasing or maintaining equity in how we collect information in the Research Task Force , the BIPOC Advocate Task Force works toward a more inclusive, accurate depiction of the LGBT community. Who makes up the BIPOC Advocates Task Force? BIPOC Advocates Director In order to make sure everything is in order, the BIPOC Advocates Director oversees all BIPOC-related initiatives organized by PRISM. An individual with lived experiences facing racial bias and discrimination, they also lead discussions based on race and the issues that come about from systemic oppression. Interested? Click here to apply! Volunteer BIPOC Advocates BIPOC Advocates are often staff or volunteers in other departments within PRISM who share lived experiences with racism or systemic oppression. They serve as a think-tank for new initiatives and practices to support BIPOC within and outside of our organization. How do I join the BIPOC Advocates? Interested in helping out? We'd love to have you! You can start by filling out a Volunteer Application Form , applying to one of the many positions in the BIPOC Advocates Task Force, or contacting us directly. Back to Top About Members Join

The School Policy Hub is your go-to guide for navigating LGBTQ+ rights and policies in Florida schools. It brings together current state laws, local district rules, and practical strategies for advocacy in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. < Return to Resources School Policy Hub The School Policy Hub is your go-to guide for navigating LGBTQ+ rights and policies in Florida schools. It brings together current state laws, local district rules, and practical strategies for advocacy in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, the Hub offers clear, accessible information to help you understand your rights, respond to challenges, and create safer school environments. All Articles Affirmed Names and Pronouns At PRISM, we believe every student deserves to be seen as their authentic self, and it starts with navigating name and pronoun changes smoothly. 3 min read School Board Advocacy School boards have enormous influence over what happens in classrooms. From bathroom policies to club recognition, from curriculum rules to teacher training, these elected bodies decide what is allowed, what is encouraged, and what is erased. For LGBTQ+ students and families, this is where many of the most important fights are happening. 3 min read Case Studies and FAQs Understanding how legal decisions and enforcement events have played out in real life can help students, parents, and educators assess risk and build a path forward. This article relies exclusively on documented cases and policy enforcement in Florida. 3 min read 1 2 3 4