This book is a guide for educators to collaboratively combat issues of discrimination, inequity, and bullying through the review of current policies, practices, and deeply held assumptions about Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered (LGBT) communities. This inside-out approach carries readers through a personal journey of reflection to action by using the "Tools of cultural proficiency" to examine their values, beliefs, and assumptions about how LGBT communities are served educationally. Creating safe and welcoming schools includes both setting effective and appropriate policies and the inside-out analyses of ones own beliefs and values. Resulting cultural proficiencies, steeped in self-reflection, boost empathy and improve learning environments. On this simple, powerful premise, readers will find: inside-out growth through personal stories and case-studies; reflection through activities and prompts appropriate for individuals and teams; and insight into current responses to bullying. Using this first step for positive systemic change, school leaders can elevate understanding and propel schools toward safe and diverse-friendly environments.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.