Gay Parents/Straight Schools

Gay Parents/Straight Schools openly addresses the specific educational realities and needs of lesbian- and gay-headed families. It explores why gayness is perceived as such a threat, especially to the education of young children, when it has such potential to enrich the worldviews of both children and adults. Based on research that includes perspectives from all those involved, this pioneering book delves into such issues as

• communication between lesbian and gay parents and school staff
• homophobia at school and at home
• gender and gender role and the different understandings about role models
• curriculum planning that invites lesbian and gay parents into the school environment
• connecting children’s family experiences with school experiences. Featuring many direct quotes from children, teachers, administrators, and parents, this timely volume provides solid information, wise insights, and useful strategies to ensure the best education for all our children.

Virginia Casper is a developmental psychologist and educator. She directs the Infant and Parent Development and Early Intervention Program at Bank Street College of Education. Steven Schultz (1953-1996) was also on the faculty at Bank Street College where he taught in the graduate school and directed the Pre-Service Program.

“A tenderly written and empathetic work about a subject educators seldom speak of but which classroom teachers, caught up in contemporary culture wars, are now obliged to face and to address with wisdom and compassionate discernment. Virginia Casper and Steven Schultz have given us a wise and gentle testament to human dignity. Beyond questions of gender, parentage, and sexuality, this is a book about the human heart, a work of deep morality and courage.”
Jonathan Kozol

“This is a book of enormous value, giving us the language and lore with which to go beyond confusion and controversy. When gay and lesbian parents are freed to speak on behalf of their children and themselves we zoom ahead on yet another front, expanding the classroom and raising our spirits.”
Vivian Gussin Paley

“Finally, a book that provides both parents and educators with the knowledge and insights they need to work together for the benefit of all—especially children.”
Educational Advocacy Committee of the Family Pride Coalition (formerly GLPCI)

“I look forward with all my heart to a time when everyone—children and adults alike—will truly be able to experience the respect, dignity, equality, and justice to which all humans are entitled. This book is an essential contribution to the achieving of that dream.”
From the Foreword by Louise Derman-Sparks