
Project: Gender Identity and Sexuality

“It’s so valuable to me to discuss real issues facing my students with colleagues from across the country. Our discussions are open and honest, and I so appreciate the opportunity to share with and learn from others.”
~ Principal from an Orthodox High School
Schools involved in the cohort:
There are currently 8 schools involved in 2 separate cohorts. Three of the schools are mixed gender and the other five are single-sex boys’ schools. The schools are geographically diverse, representing both the East and West coasts as well as the Midwest.
Goals:
To provide a forum for schools to discuss the issues that arise from gender and sexuality situations and to share experiences and impact; to develop a shared protocol that outlines some of the questions and processes that the school can go through when looking to support their community; to identify outside resources that can provide guidance and expertise.
Professional Development:
At this point, there is no outside professional development, and most of the work is through shared discussion. It is possible that through the process, a resource or resources could be identified that could provide expertise to this group and/or professional development in their schools.
Outcomes:
Through collaborative conversations and research, these two groups are developing protocols and identifying resources that can be supportive to other Orthodox high schools looking for support and guidance in this area.