Press releases

Out for Equity celebrates the opening of the Safe Space Lab
October 14, 2005

The Saint Paul Public Schools Out for Equity program invites the public to an open house Friday, Oct. 28 for the Safe Space Lab, a unique academic and recreation center for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth located at 65 E. Kellogg Blvd.

The Saint Paul Safe Space Lab, which is co-sponsored by the City of Saint Paul and the school district, offers academic tutoring, the opportunity to take classes for credit, mentoring, support services, arts opportunities and athletic activities. According to Alan Horowitz, who leads Out for Equity, the Lab is the first after-school site that combines academic, social and support services for GLBT youth.

The free, public open house will begin at 7 p.m. At 8 p.m. two popular teen authors, James Howe and Alex Sanchez, will read from and sign copies of their new books.

Howe is a children's author who has published more than 12 books. He is best known for the comical "Bunnicula" series, "The Misfits" and "The Watcher." His latest book, "Totally Joe," chronicles a teen romance.

Alex Sanchez is the Lambda Award-winning author of the "Rainbow Boys" series. His books are known for their honest portrayal of contemporary gay teen life and have won accolades from The American Library Association and the Children's Book Council.

At 9 p.m., the authors will finish their signings and the event will continue with a reception at the Carousel Restaurant at the Radisson Riverfront Hotel, 11 East Kellogg Blvd. Admission to the reception is $10.

For reservations or more information, call Out for Equity at (651) 603-4942.

More information about Out For Equity and the Safe Space Lab is available at http://outforequity.spps.org/safespacelab.htm

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All Students, Staff, and Families: Welcome
September 6, 2005

As teachers begin preparing their classrooms for new and familiar faces, and as students start loading school busses and filing into hallways, Out for Equity would like to welcome all to a new school year. The timeless rituals of education and the joy of discovery enrich us all.

While the Fall tradition of welcoming students, staff, and families back to the school community may seem familiar, let us remember that not all students, staff, or families feel welcome in our schools. Whether it is a student who cannot speak English fluently yet, or two mothers receiving looks or questions while enrolling their child, some do not feel included into our school community.

It is our hope that this year, all will feel welcome experiencing the wonderful education provided by St. Paul Public Schools.