Social Media Post Regarding LGBTQ+

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Dear Tri-Creek School Community:

On Friday, November 11, 2022, a social media post circulated regarding removal of items referencing LGBTQ+ in classrooms. 

The information contained in the posting was inaccurate and misleading. There is not a ban on the recognition of the LGBTQ+ community in Tri-Creek schools. Tri-Creek accepts and supports students and employees regardless of race, sex, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, size, age, or national origin. 

Students have freedom of speech to express themselves in appropriate ways whether that be in the clothing they wear, stickers on their personal items, creative projects, or as a part of a club’s mission or purpose–as long as the free speech does not create a disruption to the learning environment. Public school employees have freedom of speech but must remain neutral when serving in their role;  neutral regarding religion, politics, and controversial topics not related to the approved curriculum. Controversial topics are permitted when their use in the instructional program:

  • is related to the instructional goals of the course of study and level of maturity of the students;
  • does not tend to persuade students to a particular point of view; and
  • encourages open-mindedness and is conducted in a spirit of scholarly inquiry.

Tri-Creek schools celebrate diversity in an inclusive environment as is a part of our guiding principle of a Safe, Positive Learning Environment. 

The conversation is not simple and not unique to our community. You are encouraged to engage in dialogue as you seek to understand the complexity of this topic. Work with your school administration if you have questions. Together, we maintain a commitment to open dialogue and the continued provision of support for one another to help navigate the complex issues that impact our school community.