Three Teachers Reported a T-Shirt And Students Weren't Present | Ep. 216 (with Alex Holdford)

Three Teachers Reported a T-Shirt And Students Weren't Present | Ep. 216 (with Alex Holdford)

Author: Bryan Stanton August 13, 2026 Duration: 36:22
Three teachers reported a T-shirt. There weren't even students in the building. That moment became one of many reminders that for nonbinary special education teacher Alex Holdford, visibility at work isn't just personal. It's political. Alex joins Bryan Stanton to share what it's like teaching in a self-contained special education classroom while navigating increasingly restrictive policies in Texas. From wearing subtle nonbinary symbols to building trust with students who communicate differe...

Bryan Stanton (they/them) brings their experience as an award-winning educator and theatre pedagogy scholar to every conversation in Teaching While Queer: Advocacy, Community, and Resources for LGBTQ+ Educators. This isn't a theoretical discussion; it's a grounded, necessary space born from the Teaching While Queer movement, addressing the real and often unspoken challenges of existing at the crossroads of identity and the classroom. Episodes move beyond performative allyship, tackling the isolation educators can feel, the impact of restrictive policies, and the burnout that comes when institutional support is merely lip service. You'll hear from Bryan and their guests about practical strategies for survival and advocacy, fostering genuine community, and accessing resources that empower. The dialogue is unfiltered, focusing on how to maintain authenticity and resilience within educational systems. For LGBTQ+ teachers, librarians, administrators, and anyone supporting them, this podcast offers a vital blend of personal narrative, scholarly insight, and actionable solidarity, building a network of support one conversation at a time. Tune in for honest stories and tools that help navigate the complex journey of teaching as your full self.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Queering Education: LGBTQ+ Inclusive Teaching, Queer Pedagogy, and Real Classroom Practice
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