north metro

The club seems like a positive step, but as an Anoka Alumni from many years ago, I ashamed at the bigoted attitude of many of its students, teachers and administrators... The abuse went on for years and nothing was done until national attention and the courts forced the school system to do something. I had no idea that such a bigoted group of people were running and attending the school I have such fond memories of. This was not just a small group of people who were abusing others...The vast majority of students and faculty sat back and watched the abuse and did nothing. In a way Anoka, reminds me of Penn State. A different form of abuse but an abuse that was tolerated for years and hidden by a faculty trying to protect its own image and afraid or too ignorant to stop what was happening. Who would want to send their child to a school in the Anoka system and feel that there child was being properly educated and safe.

There is a special place in heaven for those who show acceptance of all at such a young age. It is immensely meaningful for those who need a boost of confidence and self-respect and it stops others from feeling comfortable bullying.-------To those high school kids - trust me that in 10, 15, 50 years your kindness will be remembered and bullies who grow up will wish they were always like you.

Why is it the responsibilty of school officials to somehow support and advocate for Gay, Bisexual or transgender individuals. I do concede that awarness and education are important, but when public school personnel become involved it sends a very strong message. Personally, I don't care what your personal perspective is, but one has to be aware of what their professional position brings to the table. If one can't seperate their personal convictions from professional responsibilities then it's time to stand down and or make a choice. Individual actions do influence others rightly or wrongly.

Fredappi...kids spend about 30% of their day at school and it represents the foundation of a kids social life. A school certainly could ignore home, family and personal problems, but then they are going to be less effective at reaching students. And frankly, they risk having students that suffer in silence and commit suicide.

Think back to high school...kids are cruel. It is important kids have someplace to feel safe.

How is it NOT the responsibility of school officials to support and advocate for ALL students? If everyone feels safe, you create a better learning environment and everyone benefits. I applaud their efforts.

@fredappl...Are you aware that all student groups in the school have a faculty adviser? Key Club, Chess Club, and Honor Society all have a faculty member advising them. This is no different.

This is about protecting the mental and physical health of our children. Anyone who thinks different has their head in the sand or are just mean in their prejudice. This is a positive step. Helping one child is worth the effort, especially for each of us it is one of our own. It does take a village to raise a child.

I can't believe that it's 2011, and some parents are thinking GSA is using ice-cream to entice students to become GLBT. GSA is a great program, and some day hopefully we will all treat each other equally and treat each with respect as we lead our own separate lives, and we will no longer have a need for these types of programs. Homophobic-ness hurts everyone, and does not do anyone any good at all. Also, Thank You for those who marched in the 2011 Anoka Grand Day Parade. I have been waiting decades to see this.

I just spent an afternoon with a friend an her freshmen in college son. They spoke of him trying to remain invisible and not joining anything in high school. Thank God there are places in schools where students can go and feel they can participate and be themselves. One shouldn't have to go through life in the shadows.