A Michigan elementary school district is implementing a lesson for students about using novel gender pronouns in an effort to promote inclusivity. Schavey Road Elementary School in DeWitt sent a letter to parents informing them of the upcoming lesson, which will help students explore and share pronouns through discussion and literature using the book “They She He Me: Free to Be!” by Maya Gonzalez. The book includes cartoon pictures of individuals using interchangeable pronouns and encourages children to claim their own pronouns outside of traditional “he” and “she” pronouns.
The book suggests that children can use their own name as a pronoun, change pronouns from “he” to “she” or create their own unique pronouns like “tree.” It also introduces the use of pronouns like “ze” and encourages children to play with pronouns by imagining how characters feel on the inside. The lesson also instructs children to use the pronouns they hear playmates using and to default to the pronoun “they” if they are unsure. This approach aims to help children embrace differences and promote acceptance.
Tom Barrett, a Republican House candidate for the district, criticized the lesson as promoting “outrageous gender politics.” He expressed concern about teaching preferred pronouns to young children, especially when many adults struggle to keep up with evolving definitions of gender and pronouns. Barrett emphasized the importance of teaching respect without delving into complex gender concepts with elementary school students. The letter informing parents of the lesson was signed by Schavey Road Elementary Principal Liz Crouch and Superintendent Dr. Shanna Spickard.
In response to criticism, Superintendent Dr. Shanna Spickard defended the lesson as a supportive measure to promote inclusivity, a core value of the district. She clarified that the lesson is optional and not part of the core curriculum. Families were informed of the upcoming lesson and given the option to opt their children out if they wished. The aim of the lesson is to ensure a safe and respectful learning environment where all students feel valued. The statement stressed that the lesson is not intended to challenge or alter family beliefs but to create a space of inclusivity and acceptance in the school.
The controversy surrounding the novel gender pronoun lesson at Schavey Road Elementary School reflects larger debates around gender identity and pronoun use. While some parents and community members support the school’s efforts to promote inclusivity and acceptance, others feel that the lesson is inappropriate for young children. The issue raises questions about when and how to address complex topics like gender identity and pronouns in educational settings, especially with elementary school students. The school district’s response emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and respectful learning environment while respecting family beliefs and values. Parents with concerns are encouraged to contact school or district administration for accurate information.
