Faith-based schools are educational institutions that follow certain religious beliefs and teach students according to those values. Some faith-based schools may have strict rules regarding teaching about gender identity, while others may allow for more open discussion. In general, faith-based schools tend to focus on traditional gender roles and may discourage exploration of nontraditional identities.
Some teachers may choose to discuss gender identity issues in class, depending on their personal views and school policies. At the same time, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to teaching about gender identity within faith-based schools. This paper will explore how faith-based schools approach—or avoid—teaching about gender identity.
Teaching About Gender Identity
Some faith-based schools may avoid discussing gender identity altogether.
They may simply state that boys should wear pants and girls should wear skirts, without considering any other possibilities. They may also present gender as binary, meaning that there are only male or female genders, without recognizing transgender people. Other faith-based schools may acknowledge that different cultures and religions have varying perspectives on gender identity, but still maintain that their own perspective is correct. These schools may view gender identity as a choice rather than an innate characteristic.
Some faith-based schools may emphasize sexual purity and abstinence until marriage, which could imply that sex outside of heterosexual marriage is wrong. All of these approaches could lead to students feeling ashamed or confused about their identity.
Open Discussion
Some faith-based schools may encourage open discussion and acceptance of all identities.
They may allow students to express themselves however they feel comfortable, including through clothing choices or pronouns. Some teachers might even discuss different types of relationships, such as polyamory or non-monogamy, which could challenge traditional religious views. In addition, some faith-based schools may teach that everyone deserves love and respect, regardless of their gender identity. This approach can help students feel more accepted and empowered in their identity.
Faith-based schools vary widely when it comes to teaching about gender identity. While some schools may ignore or shame nontraditional identities, others may embrace them fully. It's important for parents to research a school's values before enrolling their child, so they know what kind of environment they're sending their child into. At the same time, no matter how a school handles the topic, it's crucial to teach students about gender identity with respect and understanding. By doing so, we can create a safe and supportive environment for all students to explore their identities.
How do faith-based schools approach—or avoid—teaching about gender identity?
Faith-based schools have different approaches when it comes to teaching about gender identity, depending on their religious beliefs and teachings. Some may choose to teach that there are only two genders, male and female, while others may include more nuanced explanations of gender variance and nonbinary identities.