Supporting LGBTQ+ Adolescents: A Conversation with Allison Druin

Last week, I had the privilege of speaking with Allison Druin, an inspiring advocate for LGBTQ+ youth and the cofounder of JS Bryant School, the first LGBTQ+ high school in the Berkshires, Massachusetts. This groundbreaking school, set to open its doors in Fall 2025, was born out of Allison’s personal journey along with her husband Ben Benderson to find a safe, affirming educational environment for their transgender child—a search fraught with challenges that highlighted systemic gaps in support for LGBTQ+ adolescents.

During our conversation, we delved into the unique hurdles faced by LGBTQ+ teens, including bullying, family rejection, and the difficulty of finding inclusive spaces where they can truly thrive. These challenges often result in adverse mental health outcomes, academic struggles, and even homelessness. For many young people, having a supportive school environment can mean the difference between despair and hope.

JS Bryant School aims to provide not just a school, but a sanctuary where LGBTQ+ students can learn, grow, and be celebrated for who they are. It will offer a curriculum that integrates academic rigor with social-emotional support and a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Allison and Ben’s story resonate deeply with our mission at QNEST—Queers Never Experiencing Shame and Trauma. Like JS Bryant School, we are committed to creating spaces that empower LGBTQ+ youth to overcome adversity and embrace their full potential. Our shared goal is to address the systemic barriers that marginalize queer teens and to replace them with opportunities for connection, affirmation, and growth.

As JS Bryant School prepares to open in Fall 2025, its journey serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible when compassion meets action. I’m honored to have had the chance to learn from Allison’s experiences and insights, and I look forward to seeing the transformative impact JS Bryant School will have on LGBTQ+ youth in the Berkshires and beyond.

If you’re inspired by this story, I encourage you to explore ways to support initiatives like JS Bryant School and QNEST. Together, we can create a future where every LGBTQ+ adolescent has access to the safe and supportive spaces they deserve.