Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/795366
campus. "Being an ado- lescent is hard enough, let alone having to deal with one's gender identity." Her training, "Cisgender, Transgender and a Lot in Between," covers the lingo, the law and important issues relating to gen- der-diverse youth. "But it's also a matter of being compassionate," she tells colleagues. "I treat all my students with honesty and empathy, and when they feel comfortable, they do well." Th e b est way to h elp gender expan - sive students succeed is simple: Create a school environment that is welcoming an d gen d er in clu siv e for al l stu d ent s , beginning as early as kindergarten with age-appropriate materials, rather than waiting until it's perceived that there is a n e ed . Stud ents can und erst and that all individual s are uniqu e and th ere i s no single way to be a girl or a boy. When school environments respect and affirm gender diversity, students also become more accepting of dif ferent races, reli- gions and people. Also, schools should address harassm ent and bullying with research-based interventions and social justice programs. "You can either put the fires out or be in the business of fire prevention," says Baum. "Ongoing learning is key. Educators need to engage in regular professional develop- ment to build a school climate that avoids gender stereotyping and affirms the gender of all children. Every child has the right to learn in a safe and accepting school envi- ronment. And supporting gender expansive students gives schools an opportunity to help all children succeed." Lilly 's father, Eric Nilsson, says, "She told us, ' This is who I am.' She led the way." 27 March 2017 EARN 6 GRADUATE LEVEL EXTENSION CREDITS THIS SUMMER Equip your students to become curious, self-motivated learners during this 2-week long intensive course. Explore today's modern classroom in which students lead the way, and teachers facilitate the way. Prior district approval is highly recommended and the responsibility of the student if using course units towards salary advancement, credential renewing, and/or recertification. Not all courses may qualify in your local school district. EDU-X795L - Modern Classroom: Learners at Work Visit SanDiego.edu/EducatorsPrograms Enroll Today! CHOOSE FROM ANY OF OUR 13 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: Chino Hills Downey Fairfield Fresno Lafayette Monterey Murietta Newbury Park Riverbank Sacramento San Diego San Luis Obispo & Vista