In my role as an advocate for inclusive education, I work with school staff to cultivate learning environments that are welcoming and safe for all students, especially those who identify as LGBTQIA+. It’s crucial that classrooms provide affirmation and acceptance, regardless of whether a student openly identifies as something other than cisgender and straight.
Take Jamie Taylor, a 7th grade science teacher in Maryland, who truly understands the importance of inclusion. Jamie, who identifies as nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns, has developed a ‘Get To Know You’ sheet that should be implemented in every classroom setting.
In a recent Instagram post, Jamie showcased the straightforward half-page sheet they employ to gather important information from students. The thoughtful nature of these questions not only offers a safe space for students to explore and share their identities, but also educates classmates about the significance of diverse identities and gender-neutral pronouns.
Recognizing the privilege that comes with being correctly gendered or having pronouns assumed based on appearance can help foster a deeper understanding among students. This awareness encourages discussions about gender as a spectrum rather than a binary, highlighting the varied expressions of gender that exist.
Such inclusive practices can literally save lives. The straightforward yet profound questions on the sheet offer a refuge for those grappling with their identity. As someone who identifies as queer and nonbinary, I resonate deeply with Jamie’s approach. I believe in an open-minded perspective towards gender and sexuality, valuing the complexity of individual experiences.
Jamie Taylor leverages their platform as an educator to advocate for LGBTQIA+ students and staff. They lead their school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) and are actively working with administration to create supportive transition plans for both students and teachers. Their dedication to fostering inclusive resources has not gone unnoticed; they were honored as Educator of the Year by GLSEN for their impactful advocacy.
One of the key points Jamie emphasizes is that the information collected from the ‘Get To Know You’ sheet is strictly confidential. This ensures that students can express themselves freely without fear of exposure. For many, the struggle with identity can lead to depression and anxiety, particularly when they anticipate a lack of support from family.
A student’s need to be recognized by a chosen name or pronoun can significantly affect their social interactions and personal well-being. When students have even one accepting adult in their lives, their risk of suicide drops dramatically. Jamie fills this vital role, ensuring that students can communicate their preferred identities without the burden of disclosure to unaccepting families.
The ‘Get To Know You’ sheet serves as a respectful way for students to articulate how they wish to be addressed, alleviating the emotional labor of having to explain their identities to peers. It’s essential that we normalize the use of various pronouns and recognize that all pronouns are valid. Respecting these preferences should be a standard practice, not a burden.
Creating an inclusive and compassionate classroom environment is fundamental, but the lessons from educators like Jamie extend beyond school. Taking the time to understand and appreciate one another is a skill that benefits everyone in daily life.
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In summary, the ‘Get To Know You’ sheet is an invaluable tool for creating safe and affirming spaces for all students, fostering inclusivity and understanding in classrooms.