JLWMF Collaborating with The Trevor Project on Workshops
for Middle School Teachers, Parents
As part of ongoing work through the Jackson Lightfoot Whitsett Memorial Fund, the Montclair Fund for Educational Excellence (MFEE) is hosting a series of workshops aimed at deepening support for LGBTQ+ students in our community.
Montclair parents and caregivers are invited to join a workshop focused on allyship for middle school students on Thursday, February 20, from 6:45 p.m. - 8 p.m.
The one-hour workshop will provide a basic framework for understanding lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ+) youth and the unique challenges they often face. Through dialogue and activities, participants will be encouraged to build their knowledge, understanding and empathy. In addition, the session will provide specific action items to improve the environment for LGBTQ+ people. The event is FREE and light refreshments will be served.
Please RSVP to attend.
"Jackson would flash that big, bright smile knowing that the club he started now serves a growing group of teens who are following the trail he blazed years ago,” said Margaret Jackson Whitsett, Jackson’s mother and a former MFEE board member. "Offering these support workshops for parents and teachers is such a meaningful way to honor his life and spirit."
In addition, MFEE and JLWMF are also providing professional development workshops for teachers and staff at all three Montclair middle schools. Through the JLWMF, educators at Glenfield Middle School will participate in a three-workshop series, the first of which kicked off last November.
“Part of MFEE’s mission is to fund experiences that have a positive impact on students’ social-emotional and mental health, something that’s particularly critical during middle school,” said Dory Hack, MFEE’s director of innovative programming. “These sessions provide an opportunity for teachers, staff, parents and caregivers to deepen their capacity to support students and help them thrive."
All the sessions are being led by The Trevor Project, a non-profit organization that provides suicide prevention, crisis support, research and advocacy for LGBTQ+ young people. Due to their in-kind generosity, MFEE and JLWMF are able to extend workshops to staff members at Buzz Aldrin Middle School and Renaissance Middle School, as well.
"I have always been familiar with The Trevor Project but never knew the depth of their work. Their team tackled tough and essential topics with incredible care, delivering an engaging and informative session for us as staff," Glenfield Counselor Stevana Sims said. "The presentation was not only educational but also encouraged empathy and understanding, fostering an environment where every student feels seen, heard, and supported. We’re grateful for their expertise and the meaningful impact they have already made on our school community."
MFEE is honored to administer the JLWMF. Jackson graduated from Glenfield, was active in dance and cheerleading at Montclair High School, and inspired others to unapologetically celebrate their identity. The Memorial Fund was established in 2023 to honor his life and legacy. In partnership with Jackson's family, MFEE raises money through the fund with the goal of supporting and creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth across the Montclair Public Schools. Donations to support this work can be made here.
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