Chancellor Farina’s LGBT memo

Dear Neighbor,

Last month I held an education committee hearing on the treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students, families and staff in our public schools.

We heard many touching stories as well as suggestions on how to improve our schools for LGBT individuals. Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña sat in on the hearing, a historic move and an important show of support for the LGBT community.

The Chancellor then wrote in her memo in the Principals’ Weekly email newsletter (posted below) that staff should implement lessons and small group discussions encouraging an understanding of LGBT students and peers. This is a commendable action that speaks volumes about where our new Chancellor wants to take our public school system.

Please take a moment to read the Chancellor’s memo below.

Sincerely,
Daniel Dromm

Chancellor’s Memo

Dear Colleagues,

Last week, Deputy Chancellor Kathleen Grimm and I attended a City Council hearing on the treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students, families, and staff in our public schools. We heard testimony from some remarkable young people who spoke movingly about their isolation and their determination to create an atmosphere of acceptance for themselves and their families. I thank Education Chair Daniel Dromm for inviting us to address this critical issue.

Young people face a variety of experiences that contribute positively and negatively to their participation in school each day, and we play a key role in providing them with the support they need to feel safe and included.

I encourage you and your staff to implement lessons and small group discussions that offer students – especially those in middle and high school – the opportunity to gain insight on and sensitivity toward the experience of their LGBT peers. Each student plays a vital role in making all of their classmates feel that they are valued and respected members of the school community. I also encourage you and your staff members to make use of the many resources available to you on the Respect for All Library and to review our new policy to support transgender youth.

Creating an inclusive school environment ensures that our students can thrive personally and academically – thank you for all of your support with this shared goal.

Best,
Carmen Fariña
Chancellor