Date of Award

Summer 6-12-2025

Author Requested Restriction

Open Access (no restriction)

Work Type

Masters Capstone Project

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

Department

Education

First Advisor

Dr. Matthew Weinstein

Second Advisor

Dr. Matthew Weinstein

Third Advisor

Dr. Matthew Weinstein

Fourth Advisor

Dr. Matthew Weinstein

Abstract

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of the religious right's policy activism on the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ students. It also explores how educators can collaborate with advocacy groups and how state policies can ensure that each district implements LGBTQ+ inclusive curricula uniformly. Gender identities are particularly vulnerable in 2025, and culture wars are intensifying. I aim to identify modifiable factors that can promote positive school environments throughout our state and ensure that inclusive curricula are equitably distributed across districts.

Three key themes were identified: LGBTQ+ underrepresentation in curricula, policies related to LGBTQ+ student protections, parental rights, and backlash bills, and disparities in student health outcomes among LGBTQ+ students compared to their cisgender peers. The paper then explores how state-level practices can be aligned with research and discusses the implications for future research and transformed practice.

Keywords: teacher allies, school climate, LGBTQ+ rights, inclusive curriculum, religious freedom

Share

COinS