This program is subject to change.
Welcoming Schools
Workshop Description
We know that all children benefit from a school climate that addresses gender role stereotyping and disrupts bullying around gender identity and expression. This workshop will provide participants with a brief overview of lesson plans, books and resources, as well as concrete strategies to create an environment where all students thrive. We will also review pertinent laws for our transgender and non-binary students. In this session, you will have an interactive, first-hand experience with two of Welcoming Schools’ most popular professional development modules—Creating Gender-Inclusive Schools and Supporting Transgender and Non-Binary Students—which include strategies, videos and resources to better support all your students!
Workshop Presenters
Maria Al-Shamma, MSW, North County LGBTQ Resource Center and Vista Unified School District
Pronouns
Presenter Bio
Maria Al-Shamma is a School Social Worker who also serves as the Board Chair for the North County LGBTQ Resource Center. As the parent of a trans non-binary youth, she is aware of the crucial need for support for our LGBTQ+ youth, as well the education of those around them. In the Vista Unified School District she works to help LGBTQ+ youth feel safe, welcomed, affirmed and loved. Maria is a Welcoming Schools Certified Trainer and is excited to provide this professional development to elementary school educators. She also provides LGBTQ+ Competency Trainings to area K-12 schools.