With the recent tragedies in the media regarding GLBTA youth I was curious to look more closely at my GLSEN emails. GLSEN is the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network which is “the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students.” (http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/about/index.html) In one of their recent emails they highlighted an article titled “What can you do to make a positive difference?” I looked through the suggestions of what I can do to make a positive difference and realized that I could sure do a lot more.
One main suggestion that the article made was that teachers should try to be a visible ally to LGBT youth. I think that I attempt this by making it clear that no slur homophobic terms are allowed in my classroom, but I could do more to be a visible ally. The article suggests printing stickers and posters (some that the website provides) and placing them in your classroom. The website has a few posters that you can order (with a price) found here: http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/library/record/1641.html
The website also suggests that you can be a visible ally to LGBT youth by talking about important people and moments in LGBT history. I was not aware that October is GLBT History Month. A new GLBT icon is highlighted every day on the website with a video and other information about that icon. I think this is something that could easily be added into my classroom even if it is just once a week or so for this month. I thought that as opposed to only focusing or informing students about the negative things that have happened to GLBT individuals (in regards to recent events in the media), why not highlight some iconic GLBT individuals who have made a very positive impact on our world. To check out the resources available to you for GLBT History Month check out this link: http://www.glbthistorymonth.com/glbthistorymonth/2010/
Nora, this is a very helpful reminder in accepting all students. I think that I'm going to reference this site when we talk about Acceptance at the Jr. high, as one of our saber pause traits of the month. I really like the poster idea, what an easy thing to do to make GLBT youth feel more comfortable.
ReplyDeleteI also LOVE That HW article. If you want more information on Rigor and Relevance, I have some access to great information; our last principle was really big on the concept. I'm still working really hard to make sure I limit that busy work. Just curious? How much is your HW worth? Also do you use standard's based grading? If you do maybe you could tie that homework to the standard, so the students make the connection that this practice (HW) will have a direct correlation to the assessment
Great Topic... Bravo!
ReplyDeleteI get so frustrated when students use the term gay as a put down. I've had many discussions with students about this topic. They don't even think about what they are saying. They don't understand why that could offend someone, whether they are homosexual or not. Great resource and reminded to stay informed and be supportive.
ReplyDeleteThere are so many terms that our students (and sometimes we) use that have lost their original meaning but still represent slurs against a group of people. I actually heard a student say "he jewed me down" the other day and he didn't even know the root of that term (which I hadn't heard in a while!). It's important to be teaching or reminding students about appropriate and respectful language, but being proactive about supporting those who are often ingled out or left out is likely more effective and definitely more positive!
ReplyDeleteThanks for a great resource, Nora. And... did anyone watch Glee this week?
I love Glee and LOVE how they address issues like this. I have oftentimes thought about how I would love to have my classes watch episodes of Glee:)
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