Forty Elizabethton High School students attended the inaugural meeting of the Pride Alliance Club at Elizabethton High School last week, which promotes confidence in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students.

The club was a student-led initiative to create a safe space and environment of support for other students, and it currently has two faculty advisors, Chad Salyer and Lisa-Dawn Smith.

“We formed to educate and hopefully to create awareness and further tolerance and acceptance for our LGBT students,” said faculty advisor Lisa-Dawn Smith. “Anyone is welcome to attend.”

She said at the first meeting, both LGBT and straight students were in attendance. Both Principal David Wright and Assistant Principal Tom Hopson attended, and Smith said they have been supportive and approved the creation of the club.

Though the formation of the club could lead to some controversy in a community in which some opposed a Supreme Court ruling allowing gay marriage, Director of Schools Dr. Corey Gardenhour said the club meets school handbook procedures and may meet as any other club would.

“The first meeting was excellent, and students discussed goals they wanted to reach,” Smith said.

Smith said the club provides a space for students to develop healthy sense of belonging.

According to Smith, one student said the members’ character must be “above reproach,” and they must handle themselves in a manner that will win respect.

At the upcoming meeting, Smith said students will continue to outline its vision and may elect officers.