By Dr. Queenie Johnson, Director of Equity, KIPP SoCal Public Schools
Each June, Pride Month invites us to reflect on the ongoing fight for dignity, representation, and liberation for LGBTQIA+ individuals. For educators, it’s also a meaningful opportunity to evaluate how we affirm the intersecting identities our students hold.
At KIPP SoCal, we believe that creating inclusive classrooms is foundational to our mission as anti-racist educators. This work includes examining whose stories we elevate, how we engage families, and the ways we foster identity-affirming spaces where every student feels seen, respected, and safe.
Preparing Your Classroom and Curriculum
As you approach your planning for Pride Month, consider how you can ensure all students see themselves reflected in your classroom. The following areas of focus and resources are intended to support you in building inclusive learning environments:
Resources to Explore
- KIPP SoCal's Heritage Communication Guide & LGBTQIA+ Pride Month Resource Guide
- GLSEN's Educator Resources – Lesson plans, guides, and professional development
- Learning for Justice's Supporting LGBTQ+ Rights & Inclusion – Inclusive teaching strategies and classroom tools
- The Trevor Project's Educational Resources – Research-backed support for LGBTQ+ youth
Elements to Lift in Your Practice
- Intersectionality — Highlight LGBTQ+ figures from diverse racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds who have shaped movements in justice, arts, science, and beyond
- Student Voice — Encourage age-appropriate opportunities for students to explore and express identity, inclusion, and community
- Family Engagement — Keep families informed about how you’re incorporating diverse perspectives and inclusive teaching into your classroom
- Critical Thinking — Guide students in analyzing media and historical narratives through an equity-focused lens
These practices align with our broader commitment to culturally responsive teaching and offer tangible ways to live our values of inclusion and equity in the classroom.
A Lasting Commitment
The FAIR Education Act (SB 48), enacted in California in 2012, requires the inclusion of LGBTQ+ contributions in public school social studies curricula. This law affirms that LGBTQIA+ history is not optional—it's integral to teaching a complete and honest narrative of our shared history.
By amplifying LGBTQIA+ voices and integrating inclusive practices, we help shape learning environments that foster a sense of belonging, empathy, and truth. Let’s continue building schools where every student knows: You belong here.
How will you create identity-affirming spaces? Share your lessons, stories, and reflections with us on social media by tagging @kippsocal.