Educators have expressed a need for more SOGI resources and training to ensure all students feel confident being themselves. SOGI 123 responds to this need by working directly with educators, districts/divisions, and local education partners to create high-quality teaching resources that align with current regional policies. There is no "SOGI curriculum", SOGI is a topic that can be addressed throughout many subjects and school activities. 

We know that only 68% of high school students who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender graduate after four years, compared with 78% of their heterosexual classmates (Toronto District School Board student survey, 2014). The survey also found that 47% of LGBTQ students said they have experienced name-calling, compared with 31% of straight students; 27% have received threats of being hurt, compared with 13% of straight students; and 19% have been cyber-bullied, compared with 8% of straight students. Up to 40% of homeless youth identify as part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and trans youth are 5x more likely to die by suicide before graduating high school than their straight, cisgendered counterparts.   

2021 research from Egale shows that 2SLGBTQ+-focused policy in schools acts as a protective factor for 2SLGBTQI+ students; they are more likely to be flourishing in their mental health and wellbeing; experience greater school attachment, educator support, and effective intervention(s); and experience less [homophobic, biphobic, transphobic] harassment.  School is a critical space as it might be the only place a student feels safe to be their authentic self, especially in more rural and remote communities where access to safe spaces such as Pride centers or GSA’s are more rare. For youth who don’t experience a sense of belonging at home, a teacher may be the one supportive adult that helps them feel valued. When students feel connected to their school, they have a higher chance of graduating, are less likely to experience substance abuse or suicidal ideation (or attempts), and experience better mental health into young adulthood. When educators have the knowledge, tools, and support that they need to provide SOGI-inclusive education, all students benefit. 

The work SOGI 123 facilitates across Canada helps improve the physical, mental, and social well-being of students who face increased rates of bullying and harassment, mental health concerns, and social marginalization due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. While all students have been shown to benefit from SOGI-inclusive schools, we see the largest benefits for 2SLGBTQ+ youth, who are more likely to not see themselves reflected in their school community. This includes (but is not limited to) students who identify as Two-Spirit, transgender, non-binary, gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, intersex, asexual, questioning, and more.