Gender Diversity Among High School Students: Challenges and The Role of Schools Toward A Gender-Just Future

Abstract

This study examined gender preference diversity among high school students, the issues and challenges they encounter, and the role of educational institutions in promoting gender equality. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was applied, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys among Grades 7–10 students at City of Malolos Integrated School–Sto. Rosario during the 2025–2026 school year. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that although many students were open about their gender identity and received acceptance from family and peers, they continued to experience bullying, discrimination, and social exclusion within the school environment. Participants commonly coped by remaining silent or avoiding confrontation. The quantitative findings indicated that schools implemented gender-responsive practices to a moderate extent; however, gaps in awareness and consistent implementation persisted. The study recommends strengthening gender-responsive policies, increasing awareness programs, enhancing faculty training, and expanding institutional support to foster a safer, more inclusive, gender-just future and equitable educational environment.