Ep. 7: LGBTQ+ Inclusive Classrooms with Ace Schwarz

On This Episode of School of Talk

This episode features Ace Schwarz. Ace is a 6th and 7th grade Science teacher in Pennsylvania. In addition to being an educator, Ace is a passionate advocate of social justice and LGBTQ+ inclusion. In 2018 Ace came out as non-binary and began using the pronouns uses the pronounce they/them/theirs. They worked closely with HR and administrators to develop a transition plan for teachers and students. Due to this advocacy work, they were recognized as the 2019 Educator of the Year by the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN).

Ace shares resources on their website Teaching Outside the Binary to support LGBTQ+ students and teachers. They joined me on the podcast to educate us on creating LGBTQ+ inclusive classrooms and work environments.

Episode Highlights:

• Ace breaks down their definition of LGBTQ+ inclusive education as well as the intended goal or purpose of LGBTQ+ inclusive education.
• Ace gives advice to teachers who are making LGBTQ+ inclusive education a focus this year including how teachers can adjust their language, content, and the physical environment to support all students.
• Ace share’s their personal experience with how creating a safe space has impacted their school community.
• Ace explains what they see schools doing well and where improvements can still be made. Plus, they tell us one thing schools could do to make schools more inclusive.

Resources to create more inclusive learning environments:

• Ace’s Website: Teaching Outside the Binary
• GLSEN
• Stonewall: Creating an LGBT-inclusive secondary curriculum
• Action Canada Gender Galaxy

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