What's the T? Queer Realities and Queer Possibilities in K–12 and Teacher Education

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This session advances scholarly inquiry on the inclusion and affirmation of LGBTQ stakeholders in K12 and teacher education. The presentations offer examples of efforts that both facilitate equitable learning and professional contexts for queer members of the school community as well as disrupt dominant heteronormative discourses and practices. The session bridges theoretical frameworks attentive to LGBTQ issues in education with the pragmatic realities of (and possibilities for) LGBTQ individuals and their allies. Ultimately, participants provide “the T”, the truth and tales of LGBTQ teachers, students, school leaders, teacher-educators and educational researchers working to dismantle heteronormativity. The session will provide recommendations to move beyond schools as safe spaces towards institutions unencumbered by the confines of the heteronormative paradigm.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Queer Studies

Chairs

• Adrian D. Martin, New Jersey City University

• Kathryn J. Strom, California State University - East Bay

Papers

• Using Literacy to Explore Heteronormativity With Second Graders - Paul Hartman, Illinois State University

• The Hegemony of Transition and Transgender Counternarratives in Children's Picture Books - Ashley Lauren Sullivan, The Pennsylvania State University - Erie, The Behrend College; Laurie Urraro, The Pennsylvania State University - Erie, The Behrend College

• Beyond the Binary in Elementary School - Lynn Bravewomon, Hayward Unified School District

• Disrupting Heteronormativity in Early Childhood Teacher Education: Reflections From a Teacher and Student - Peggy Shannon-Baker, Georgia Southern University; Ingrid Wagner, University of Cincinnati

Discussant

• Mara Sapon-Shevin, Syracuse University