Beyond the Binary: Discussing Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Identity in K-12 Schools - Why Should We Teach Children About Transgender People and Issues?

Beyond the Binary: Discussing Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Identity in K-12 Schools Bigstock Why Should We Teach Children About Transgender People and Issues? In order to provide a safe, inclusive and welcoming learning environment for all students, it is important to discuss transgender, gender non-conforming and non- binary identities and topics in schools and classrooms. [...] Gender identity is a significant aspect of identity and the human condition and there have been transgender and non-binary people since ancient civilization. [...] 1 / 3 It is also important for educators because bullying and harassment of all kinds disproportionately impact LGBTQ students and in particular, gender non- conforming students in the younger grades and transgender and non-binary students in the older grades. [...] Legislation and School Policies to Make Schools Safe and Inclusive for Transgender Students Increasingly, schools are working to protect transgender students from harassment and discrimination. [...] The best and most comprehensive laws, policies and guidelines focus on three areas: (1) harassment and bullying of transgender and gender non-conforming students, (2) addressing gender-segregated spaces in school such as bathrooms, locker rooms, and line formations, and (3) dealing with records and rules such as names/pronouns, official records, identification, privacy and dress codes.