Chapter 5: Out In The Staffroom

Dear Queer Preservice Teacher,

I’m writing this letter to share with you one of the issues that I have faced as a queer teacher. An issue that I did not expect, that challenged me, and from which I have been able to draw immense strength and educate others.

By the time I began my teaching degree, I had worked in several education-related jobs, traveled, moved in with my partner, come out to everyone—including my grandparents, my boss, and my colleagues at a suburban swim school. Folks at the swim school didn’t bat an eyelid about continuing to share the very small women’s change room with me. I felt confident and sure of my identity. It didn’t even occur to me that, as a teacher, being out was going to be an issue.