Transgender Student at My Daughter's School

[qos]

I just read an amazing, powerful letter from the principal of my daughter's new school, telling parents about a returning student who "identifies and expresses her gender as female, even though she was born into a male body. V__ is a transgender individual, and we are happy that she is part of [our school]'s community where we have an unequivocable commitment to making sure that ALL children are cared for and learn at our school."

I was blown away. The entire letter is positive in tone, stressing the absolute commitment to the welfare of the transgendered child and characterizing this as an opportunity for everyone in the community to grow in understanding and celebrating differences.

The principal also indicated an understanding that some of the parents may have their own feelings about this situation. "I am writing so that I can support your processing as an adult in hope that you will support your child in understanding and supporting this student." The student's parents are also volunteering to speak with other parents to help promote understanding.

It ends with a tactful but firm reminder of the school and district policies prohibiting disrespectful behavior toward her.

I am so impressed by this, so glad that my daughter will be spending time in this community, and so grateful that the child in question has this kind of support from her school.

And I'm going to email the principal and tell him so.

Wow. . .

Comments

[a-belletrist.livejournal.com]

That is TOTALLY cool.

[iswari.livejournal.com]

Wow, that is really amazing.

[heron61.livejournal.com]

I am so impressed by this, so glad that my daughter will be spending time in this community, and so grateful that the child in question has this kind of support from her school.

And I'm going to email the principal and tell him so.

Most definitely, the principle will undoubtedly be very happy to receive letters of support as well as the sort of nastiness that some people are likely to respond with. In any case, that is amazingly cool.

[qos.livejournal.com]

*smile

My father spent most of his career as a public school administrator. I know how welcome positiive, supportive letters are -- and how much more likely it is for people to write nasty ones.

Not only was I so impressed that I felt the need to write, I wanted to be sure there was something there to offset any nastiness that came his way as a result of his stance.

[vsmallgoddess.livejournal.com]

I just wanted to let you know that I really miss you.
--P.

[qos.livejournal.com]

Thanks, P.
I do think about you from time to time and hope you're doing well.
I know this past year can't have been easy for you.

[parisgarters.livejournal.com]

That is definitely impressive!

[malakhgabriel.livejournal.com]

Wow indeed...

[gothic-coop.livejournal.com]

Very interesting indeed.

[oakmouse]

Bloody amazing. Five stars for that school and that principal.

And you go in writing the nice letter!

[makhsihed.livejournal.com]

That is utterly awesome. Very neat. :D

[savantium.livejournal.com]

That is impressive and very nice of you to let him know how you feel. I am sure he will be more then glad to see it.

[rocket-jockey.livejournal.com]

You might consider a physical note: emails are nice, but an actual letter is still worth it when giving praise.

[amqu.livejournal.com]

Is your daughter in high school now? How old is this kid?

[qos.livejournal.com]

Both my daughter and the child in question are starting sixth grade.

[stiobhanrune.livejournal.com]

Now THAT is fantastic. I wish there were more supportive administrators and schools like that in our school system around here!

*hugs*