Navigating Discussions of Race, Gender, and Sexual Orientation in K12

Chiefs for Change Chief in Residence Dr. Barbara Jenkins, Scholastic Chief Academic Officer Amanda Alexander, PEN America CEO Suzanne Nossel, The Together Network for Transformation CEO Michael Hinojosa, and United Way for Southeastern Michigan President & CEO Darienne Driver Hudson discuss navigating discussions of race, gender, and sexual orientation in K12 at the 2023 ASU+GSV Summit.

There is increasing reason to confront issues of difference among students, their backgrounds, identities, and family systems. At the same time, some parents and politicians are pushing to limit discussions of these topics. There is debate about Critical Race Theory, and there is the passing of the “Don’t Say Gay” bills. How do administrators, educators, teachers, and education leaders chart a course to meet student needs without triggering bitter political battles?