Hyperlink - “RI Laws and Policies” by RI Department of Education

The news about Harvard EdCast discusses about some of the topics found in the RI Laws and Policies that support transgender and nonconforming students. Melinda Mangin, Professor Educational Theory Policy & Administration states the importance for schools to feel inclusive towards minorities and the students feel affirmed by their beliefs, mindsets, and goals so they can safely receive an education and graduate in their schools of choice. She encourages schools try to integrate inclusive practices by not using gender as an organizational tool, giving opportunities to discuss about gender in class whether it be in literature or casual conversation, and overall treating them like any student trying to gain an education. Changing the school culture is needed however few students are willing to express their gender identity because many fear of being ridiculed so what ends up happening is only a few percent of students are willing to advocate while the remaining stay quiet. Students also should have classes studying and discussing about gender and sex identity because for most people it is a journey like in elementary school where transgender or nonconforming students usually go through social transition. They change their clothes, hairstyle, and pronouns. While in middle school and high school they might go through a gender transition or medical transition. These are phases the RI Laws and Polices are discussing and trying to intergrate and promote in our learning curriculum and teachers are there to enforce this progression.

Comment: A child’s growth especially once they have a better understanding of their identity is important and it is up to the teacher and parents to accommodate for it so they both need to develop a partnership in order for the student to succeed and have joyous school life.