Creating Gender-Inclusive Learning Communities
Pre-Work
Prior to engaging in the professional development, we ask that you take some time to engage with the following materials. We will be using them as a shared foundation and a lens through which to engage with the experience.
This article explains the nuances for understanding gender. It explains the difference between sex assigned at birth, gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation. Notice the importance the experience of congruence has on self-esteem and a sense of belonging.
The speaker in this EDTalk is Jason Bucklin, LGBTQ Program Coordinator with Minneapolis Public Schools. Theh program is OutForGood.
EDTalks: Creating Gender Inclusive Schools
As you watch this, please “play along.”
- Consider your own journey with gender. How did you develop your understanding of gender?
- As an educator, what is the role you can play in interrupting negative gender-based language and practices?
- What gender terms were new to you? With which were you already well familiar?
- What are some strategies you can implement to help your classroom be a more gender-inclusive space?
Experience Full
This experience requires reflection and acknowledgement of gender identities that go beyond the binary traditional construct, and urges deeper knowledge and understanding for participants to better accommodate and educate ALL of our students, including those whose identities fall outside of traditional expectations of binary gender identity and/or expression, and connect across those differences as well. The experience will begin with a brief overview led by JJ Kahle, followed by travel to the Blake Campus. There, David Edwards, who has both professional expertise as an educator and personal experience as a father of a trans daughter, will lead us in training. Following David’s presentation, we will have a working lunch, followed by a panel discussion including parents, former students and educators who will share their insights on gender/sexuality inclusive curriculum and practice in schools. This experience will focus on creating a gender-inclusive learning community, with an emphasis on curriculum and practice. It is intended for all divisions and departments, PK-12.
- How are school curriculum and practice shaped by gender expectations?
- How can we act to create a more gender-inclusive learning environment for all of our students?
Facilitators:
JJ Kahle
David Edwards
Location:
Beginning at the Upper School, then traveling to Blake Campus.
Training and panel discussion in Blake Lower School Library.