Chrysalis LA: A New School for Queer & Trans Kids

You are about to make a tangible difference in the lives of trans, non-binary, and queer youth!

We are thrilled to introduce you to Chrysalis Academy, a brand new, intentionally small school that aims to provide a safe and empowering environment for queer, trans, and gender-expansive middle school students in the Los Angeles area.

Why:

The morning news brings a daily update with new states, new counties, proposing legislation to limit the rights of trans, non-binary, and queer youth. Attempts are being made to limit healthcare options for trans youth, access to supportive mental health care, access to books reflecting LGBTQ+ identities, and the ability of schools to provide appropriate bathrooms, locker rooms, sports programs, as well as the option to respect a student's right to share their identity with parents when, and if, they feel safe doing so.

These headlines serve to provide a daily message to trans, non-binary, and queer youth that they are not safe. They should not belong. They should not be allowed to be who they are.

At Chrysalis Academy trans, non-binary, and queer youth are safe, welcome, and celebrated for who they are.

Our Vision:

Chrysalis Academy provides an oasis of safety and celebration where LGBTQ+ and gender-expansive middle school students are affirmed and empowered while investing in deep academic and social emotional learning.

According to research conducted or compiled by The Trevor Project, LGBTQ+ young people are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide than their peers (Johns et al., 2019; Johns et al., 2020), and transgender/nonbinary young people face elevated risk for depression, thoughts of suicide, and attempting suicide compared to those who are cisgender and straight, including cisgender members of the LGBTQ+ community. Only about half of LGBTQ+ students report that their school environment is affirming...only half.

At Chrysalis Academy, we believe that every child is on their own path of identity exploration and deserves an education that nurtures their individuality and fosters a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ and gender expansive students often face unique challenges in traditional school settings, including feelings of isolation, heightened levels of anxiety, and a lack of understanding and support.

That's why we are on a mission to create an independent school that caters specifically to the needs of LGBTQ+ and gender expansive students.

Our Mission:

Within an affirming community, we empower LGBTQ and gender-expansive young people to embrace learning, honor compassion, and celebrate the evolution of their unique identity.

Why We Need Your Support:

Building a new school is a significant undertaking, and we can't do it alone. Your support is crucial in making this dream a reality. Here's how your contribution will make a difference:

Our Commitment:

Your trust and enthusiasm are important to us and crucial to the success of this project. We will regularly update you on our progress, share success stories, and let you know how your financial support is making a real impact.

Join Us in Making a Difference:

All first round donors will be recognized as Founding Donors and any gift of $500 or more will earn the distinction of Founding Benefactor. Your gift, no matter the size, will have a direct effect on our ability to move forward. Together, we can create a daily safe haven for queer, trans, and gender expansive 6th-8th graders, where they can learn, explore, grow, and thrive in a cocoon of acceptance and empowerment.

Spread the Word:

Even if you can't contribute financially, you can still help us by spreading the word about our campaign. Share this GoFundMe page on social media, with friends, family, and colleagues who may be interested in supporting our cause.

Thank you for believing in our mission and for helping us create a safer and more secure world for LGBTQ+ and gender expansive young people.