I posted a version of this in the comments on a friend's web log:
I think the thing people need to realize is that the people that end up at Harvey Milk are, as the administrators put it, ones "with a history." These are generally kids that have reached the point of being physically hurt, kicked out of their homes, etc. These aren't kids with a lot of options. In a perfect world we wouldn't need such schools, but to say that it is the duty of these vulnerable kids to change the world while those of us who are more privileged wait for a more pure solution is offensive. I am reminded of the idea that it is not the job of the oppressed to educate their oppressors.
Go read James's post on the subject. I think it's one of the best things he has ever written for his weblog.
For some statistics on gay youth and education, check out this PFLAG page.
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Updated: Also see Steve Gilliard's post at Daily Kos.
