New York City is bustling with opportunities for the young and the young-at-heart.However, in a state where gay marriage is still illegal and the LGBTQ population is not entirely supported, it doesn’t take a scientist to be able to examine the reasoning behind the bullying of school age kids who are harassed and treated poorly on the basis of their sexuality. Sadly, it’s not just their peers, but the school system itself.
Harvey Milk High School Executive Director Thomas Krever spoke with me exclusively in San Francisco (political activist Harvey Milk’s former hometown) about the mission of the small, public high school.“Harvey Milk High School is a small school and a transfer-high school model.In New York City, there are 1.1 million school age young people.Within that 1.1 million school age people, the largest system in the country, there are at-risk students who seek safe-haven and refuge for an education free of bullying, victimization and harassment.Not because it is their privilege, but because it’s their right.”
When asked if they received a diploma and the accolades that go along with it, Krever responded, “At Harvey Milk High School, they receive a public high school diploma just like every young person in the United States that seeks out a high school for the career of their education so that they can walk with their heads held high and the dignity and respect that accompanies a high school diploma.”
According to the official Harvey Milk High School website, in 2008 nearly 90% of the student population graduated (this percentage is higher than the New York City average).Also, more than 60% of the Harvey Milk High School graduates continued with their education following high school. In 2005, a National School Climate Survey reported that nearly 74% of students had heard derogatory remarks such as “faggot” and “dyke” at school.
So, who is eligible to attend Harvey Milk High School? Anyone between the ages of 12-21 years old regardless of whether or not you are currently enrolled in high school.You will need to provide proof of age and an identifying document to verify your identity. There are youth membership intakes Monday through Friday between the times of 3:00pm – 5:30pm. If these days and times do not work for you, it is suggested that you call to set up an appointment (the meeting takes roughly one hour): 212-674-2600, extension 271. If you do plan to stop by the office, the address is: 2 Astoria Pl, New York, NY 10003. More information can be found here.
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