A Michigan elementary school district in DeWitt is implementing a lesson for students about using novel gender pronouns to promote inclusivity. The Schavey Road Elementary School sent out a letter to parents informing them of the upcoming lesson using the book “They She He Me: Free to Be!” by Maya Gonzalez. The book encourages children to explore and share pronouns, including those outside of traditional “he” and “she,” such as using their own name or creating new pronouns like “ze” or “tree.” Parents have the option to opt their children out of the curriculum if they choose.
The book explains that children can “claim” their pronouns outside of the binary “he” and “she” by using new pronouns like “ze” or “tree.” It also encourages children to play with pronouns by imagining how characters feel on the inside and changing their pronouns accordingly. The lesson aims to help students embrace differences, promote acceptance, and create a safe and respectful learning environment where students feel valued. However, some critics, including Republican House candidate Tom Barrett, have called it “outrageous gender politics” and believe that it is inappropriate to teach young children about preferred pronouns.
The letter announcing the lesson was signed by Schavey Road Elementary Principal Liz Crouch and DeWitt Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Shanna Spickard. Dr. Spickard released a statement clarifying that the lesson is optional and not part of the core curriculum. Families were informed about the lesson and given the option to opt their child out if they have concerns. The goal of the lesson is not to challenge or alter family beliefs but to promote inclusivity and ensure a safe and respectful learning environment for all students.
The superintendent explained that the lesson is in line with the district’s approach to personal health curriculum and is not meant to challenge or alter family beliefs. It is intended to create a safe and respectful learning environment where students feel valued. The district encourages any parents with concerns to reach out to the building or district administration for accurate information. Overall, the lesson is part of the district’s efforts to promote inclusivity and acceptance among students, while respecting the diversity of individual beliefs and values.
The use of novel gender pronouns in the classroom has sparked debate among parents, educators, and community members. While some see it as a positive step towards creating a more inclusive environment for all students, others view it as an inappropriate introduction of complex gender politics to young children. The district’s decision to incorporate this lesson reflects a broader societal discussion around gender identity and the importance of respecting individuals’ preferred pronouns.
In conclusion, the implementation of a lesson on using novel gender pronouns in a Michigan elementary school district has sparked both support and criticism. While the district aims to promote inclusivity and acceptance among students, some parents and community members have raised concerns about the appropriateness of teaching young children about preferred pronouns. The district has provided an option for parents to opt their children out of the lesson and emphasizes that the goal is to create a safe and respectful learning environment where all students feel valued. The debate surrounding this lesson highlights the ongoing discussion around gender identity and the importance of respecting individuals’ pronouns.
