Queering our Schools, PPSD Policy, and Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Guidance for Rhode Island Schools on Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students

 

Queering our Schools by The Editors of Rethinking Schools

The authors of this text argue that even though progress for LGBTQ rights have been made, schools are still often unsafe for queer students.  It calls for moving beyond basic anti-bullying efforts to address deeper issues like homophobia and sexism. Schools should build inclusive communities, support LGBTQ staff, and integrate LGBTQ topics into everyday curriculum.  The authors emphasize that creating safe, inclusive schools requires building strong communities rooted in empathy, open dialogue, and respect for differences. This includes changing school structures (e.g., gender-neutral policies, inclusive forms, diverse representation) and encouraging honest conversations about gender and sexuality.

A key point is that schools cannot be safe for LGBTQ students unless they are also safe for LGBTQ teachers and staff. Support from unions, parents, and the broader school community is essential.

The chapter also advocates for “queering the curriculum,” meaning integrating LGBTQ people, histories, and perspectives into everyday teaching across subjects and not just treating them as special topics.

Overall, the text argues that while progress has been made, schools still have significant work to do to become truly inclusive spaces where all identities are valued and supported.

PPSD Policy

The PPSD Policy for non-discrimination- transgender and gender expensive students states that schools must provide a safe, non-discriminatory environment for all students, regardless of gender identity, expression, or sexual orientation.  Schools should review policies and activities to ensure they are not gender-restrictive and are inclusive of all identities.  Training and implementation includes that staff must receive training on gender identity issues, prevention of bullying, and inclusive practices.  This text also states that schools must make the policy visible and make sure that privacy is protected in all communications.  Students’ gender identity and personal information must be kept private, and disclosure requires consent or legal necessity.

Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Guidance for Rhode Island Schools on Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students

The guidance argues that schools must actively create safe, inclusive, and supportive environments for all students- especially transgender and gender nonconforming youth by reducing discrimination, protecting privacy, and promoting understanding.

This text states that all students need a safe, supportive environment to succeed academically and socially, schools must be free from discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. It also states that there must be cultural competence and professional training for educators.

Reflections and Connections:

After reading these texts, I couldn't help but wonder if schools are actually following through with these policies.  At a school level we can say we follow these policies but is it truly what students experience?  These policies have strong guidance and outline protections and norms but in reflection, I wonder if all schools and districts adhere to these policies.  Publishing policies doesn't necessarily mean that schools follow these with fidelity.  I know that in the part about teacher training and professional developments, that my school definitely doesn't talk about these topics other than in the beginning of year and during pride month.  I think this does a disservice to students because are they really feeling seen, heard, valued, included and supported?