Building Inclusive Communities for LGBTQIA+ Youth,
Grades K-12

Course Description

In today’s diverse classrooms, educators must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to create inclusive environments for all students, including those who identify as members of the LGBTQIA+ community. This course aims to help current and aspiring teachers understand the unique experiences of LGBTQIA+ learners and develop equitable practices that promote their academic and personal growth.

Throughout this course, educators will engage in a variety of activities, including watching videos from marginalized voices, reading articles, and reflecting on their own experiences and practices. They will learn about the different gender and sexual orientations that exist within the LGBTQIA+ community and explore the intersectionality of LGBTQIA+ identities with other marginalized groups.

Educators will also examine how heteronormativity, cisnormativity, and other forms of bias and discrimination can impact the experiences of LGBTQIA+ learners in schools. They will learn about legal and ethical considerations for supporting LGBTQIA+ students, including federal and state laws and guidelines that protect LGBTQIA+ students’ rights.

The course will cover topics such as creating safe and supportive classrooms, developing inclusive curricula, and addressing issues related to bullying and harassment. Educators will also learn strategies for collaborating with families and community members to support LGBTQIA+ learners.

By the end of the course, educators will have gained a deeper understanding of the experiences and needs of LGBTQIA+ learners and be equipped with practical strategies for creating inclusive and affirming learning environments for all students. They will also have opportunities to reflect on their own biases and beliefs and develop action plans for implementing equitable practices in their daily teaching.

Essential Questions

Course Agenda

  1. Course Introduction
  2. Learning About LGBTQIA+ Students
  3. Challenging Inequitable and Exclusionary Practices
  4. LGBTQIA+ Advocacy and Allyship
  5. Course Wrap Up
Course Syllabus

 

Danielson Teacher Framework Course Alignment

1b.

Demonstrating Knowledge of Students

2a.

Creating an Environment of Respect and Rapport

2b.

Establishing a Culture for Learning

3e.

Demonstrating Flexibility and Responsiveness