Queering Family Engagement in K-12 Institutions

Abstract

This paper serves two purpose: First, it explores existing research on queering family engagement, and secondly, it describes two potential resources that have been created as part of a holistic approach to queering family engagement. The literature review attempts to answer two questions: How can K-12 schools promote a safer environment for LGBT students and LGBT families by queering family engagement? How might queering family engagement for the LGBT community also improve family-school relations for other traditionally marginalized identities? While LGBT youth and youth of LGBT families are the primary focus of the literature review, all traditionally marginalized youth are meant to benefit from the queered family engagement strategies. Queer theory and intersectionality theory are prevalent in the research and are therefore utilized as the base for the two strategies meant to queer family engagement. These two strategies include a documentary addressing the need for intersectionality in teacher preparation programs and professional development and a Queering Family Engagement Program.